Samantha Bee, the sharp-tongued host of Full Frontal, has responded to Saturday Night Live creator Lorne Michaels’ recent comments about the long-running sketch show being “nonpartisan” and not like her program. Michaels, in an interview with Variety, suggested that SNL’s broad appeal lies in its ability to avoid being overtly political, unlike Bee’s explicitly progressive and satirical take on current events.
“He’s right,” Bee quipped in her signature deadpan style during a recent podcast appearance. “SNL can’t be Full Frontal because, well, they’re not trying to be. They’re doing their thing, and I’m doing mine. But let’s be real—comedy doesn’t have to be one-size-fits-all.”
Michaels’ remarks sparked a wave of reactions online, with fans debating whether SNL truly stays neutral in today’s hyper-political climate. Bee, known for her no-holds-barred approach to tackling issues like reproductive rights, climate change, and social justice, didn’t hold back in her response. “Lorne’s got a point—SNL has to appeal to everyone, from your grandma to your weird uncle who still thinks the 2020 election was stolen. I don’t have that pressure. I get to say, ‘Hey, your weird uncle is wrong, and here’s why.’”
While Bee acknowledged the differences between the two shows, she also highlighted the importance of diverse voices in comedy. “There’s room for both,” she said. “SNL gives you the laughs with a side of politics, and I give you the politics with a side of laughs. It’s like choosing between pizza and tacos—both are great, but sometimes you’re just in the mood for one over the other.”
Fans of both shows have taken to social media to weigh in, with some praising Bee’s boldness and others defending SNL’s more balanced approach. One Twitter user wrote, “Samantha Bee is the voice we need, but SNL is the escape we crave.” Another joked, “Lorne Michaels just confirmed that SNL is the Switzerland of comedy.”
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: comedy remains a powerful tool for commentary, whether it’s through SNL’s sketches or Bee’s biting monologues. And while Michaels and Bee may have different approaches, they’re both proving that laughter is still the best way to navigate these divisive times.
What do you think—should comedy stay neutral, or is it okay to pick a side? Let us know in the comments!