Tina Fey Reflects on Past ‘SNL’ Jokes, Admits She “Was On The Wrong Side”
In a candid interview promoting her new memoir, Bossypants: The Next Chapter, Tina Fey opened up about evolving perspectives on comedy, accountability, and the cultural shifts that have reshaped what is considered acceptable humor. The Emmy and Golden Globe-winning writer, actress, and producer acknowledged that some of her early work on Saturday Night Live — particularly sketches from the 2000s — now strike her as misguided or insensitive.
“I was pretty dumb,” Fey said in a recent appearance on The View, reflecting on jokes that relied on stereotypes or punched down at marginalized groups. “Looking back, I realize I was on the wrong side of certain conversations. Comedy evolves, and so should we.”
Her remarks come amid a broader industry reckoning with legacy content, as streaming platforms and networks reevaluate older shows for outdated portrayals of race, gender, sexuality, and disability. Fey, who served as head writer for SNL from 1999 to 2006 and famously co-anchored “Weekend Update” with Jimmy Fallon and later Amy Poehler, has long been a defining voice in modern satire.
The Evolution of Comedy and Accountability
Fey’s introspection aligns with a growing trend among comedians and writers who are revisiting past work through a more informed lens. In recent years, figures like Jimmy Fallon, Sarah Silverman, and even Fey’s 30 Rock collaborator Tracy Morgan have addressed jokes or sketches that no longer reflect today’s standards of inclusivity.
According to a 2023 study by the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, over 60% of viewers under 35 said they are less likely to rewatch classic comedy shows if they contain offensive stereotypes, even if presented ironically. Fey acknowledged this shift, noting that intent doesn’t always negate impact.
“You can’t hide behind ‘it was just a joke’ when the joke hurts people,” she said. “I’ve learned that accountability isn’t about erasing the past — it’s about understanding it, learning from it, and doing better moving forward.”
From ‘SNL’ to Streaming: Fey’s Ongoing Influence
Despite her reflections, Fey remains one of the most influential figures in comedy. Her Netflix series The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (co-created with Robert Carlock) received widespread acclaim for its sharp writing and feminist undertones, earning seven Primetime Emmy Awards during its run. More recently, she starred in and executive produced the Apple TV+ series Girls5eva, a satirical take on girl bands and fame that has been praised for its clever subversion of tropes.
Industry analysts note that Fey’s willingness to engage in self-critique enhances her credibility as a cultural commentator. “Tina Fey has always been willing to hold a mirror up to society — and now she’s turning it on herself,” said Linda Holmes, pop culture critic for NPR. “That kind of honesty is rare and valuable in an era where defensiveness often follows criticism.”
Why This Conversation Matters
Fey’s comments are part of a necessary dialogue about how art reflects — and shapes — societal values. As audiences demand greater authenticity and responsibility from creators, public figures who acknowledge growth rather than defend stagnation help model a healthier creative ecosystem.
She emphasized that her goal isn’t to disown her past work but to contextualize it. “I’m proud of what we accomplished on SNL and beyond,” Fey said. “But pride doesn’t mean perfection. It means being willing to say, ‘I see where I fell short.’”
As comedy continues to evolve in response to cultural awareness, Fey’s openness serves as a reminder that humor can be both sharp and kind — and that the best satire punches up, not down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Tina Fey apologize for specific ‘SNL’ sketches?
While Fey did not name individual sketches, she acknowledged that some of her early jokes relied on harmful stereotypes and admitted she “was on the wrong side” of certain conversations. She framed her remarks as part of an ongoing learning process rather than a direct apology for specific bits.
Has ‘SNL’ removed or edited past episodes due to controversial content?
As of 2024, NBC and Peacock have not officially removed or altered full episodes of SNL from its archive. However, the show has added content warnings to certain classic episodes on streaming platforms, particularly those featuring blackface or offensive impersonations. NBCUniversal stated in a 2022 internal memo that it is “reviewing legacy content with input from cultural consultants” to ensure alignment with current standards.
What is Tina Fey working on now?
Fey is currently promoting her memoir, Bossypants: The Next Chapter, released in May 2024. She is also developing a new comedy series for Hulu with her longtime collaborator Robert Carlock, tentatively titled The Overthinkers, which explores anxiety and ambition in modern workplaces. She continues to serve as a producer on Girls5eva, which was renewed for a fourth season in early 2024.
Key Takeaways:
- Tina Fey acknowledged that some of her early SNL jokes were misguided and admitted she “was on the wrong side” of certain cultural conversations.
- Her comments reflect a broader industry trend of reevaluating legacy comedy through a modern lens of inclusivity and accountability.
- Fey emphasized that growth and self-critique are essential to responsible comedy, without disowning her past achievements.
- She remains active in television, with a new memoir out and upcoming projects in development for Hulu and Apple TV+.