Saturday Night Live faced backlash after its audience erupted in cheers during a “Weekend Update” joke referencing Luigi Mangione, the prime suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
During the segment, host Colin Jost mentioned Mangione, prompting an unexpected and unsettling reaction from the crowd. Jost, visibly uncomfortable, attempted to finish his sentence but was met with continued applause. He responded sarcastically, saying, “You’re wooing for justice, right?”
Piers Morgan, among others, took to social media to criticize the incident. Morgan wrote on X: “So disgusting… and Colin Jost just smirks away as if it’s all one big giggle. Shameful moment for SNL.”
Jennifer Sey, an author and business executive, also weighed in, calling the audience “the dumbest group of pathetic woke conformists known to man” in a tweet.
Even figures on the political right, such as former President Trump’s homeland security advisor Stephen Miller, condemned the audience’s reaction. Miller subtweeted the video on X: “Revolting. Sickening. Vile.”
Mangione’s mention on SNL reflects the wider public fascination with his case. Since his arrest, he has become a viral sensation, with many drawn to his Ivy League background and manifesto criticizing healthcare industry practices.
This isn’t the first time SNL has addressed Mangione. Last week, Sarah Sherman joked about his alleged attractiveness, further fueling the controversy.
Mangione is scheduled to appear in court tomorrow. He is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center.
**Stay informed about the latest developments in this unfolding story. Follow Variety for more updates.**