‘SNL’ Faces Ad Boycott Over Controversial Skit
SNL is currently facing an ad boycott over one of its controversial skits.
The Saturday Night Live sketch featuring Academy Award-winning actor Christoph Waltz as “Djesus Uncrossed” has drawn the ire of a Christian watchdog group. As a result, Sears has pulled ads from the online version of the skit.
The company told The Hollywood Reporter in an email that some of its customers found the skit to be very offensive. Although they removed ads from the online version of “Djesus Uncrossed,” Sears said it still intends to run advertisements during the show itself.
“We informed customers that it wasn’t supposed to happen, and while going forward we may advertise on the broadcast, we’ve taken steps to ensure that our commercials do not air online exactly as they did in this situation,” Sears explained.
The American Family Association (AFA) explained that it was responsible for getting Sears to remove ads from the SNL skit. The organization also stated that JCPenney could also withdraw its online advertisements from the “Djesus Uncrossed” on the NBC website.
“NBC would never do this to any other religious group, but it’s popular in Hollywood circles to go after ‘crazy’ Christians,” AFA president Tim Wildman said. “When you embrace television programming with no morals, you can’t possibly embrace the public you are trying to sell to.”
Representatives from JCPenney have yet to comment on the decision. However, it’s currently being reported that the company will not advertise during the next episode of SNL. The retailer has also removed its ads from online version of the controversial skit.
The AFA sent out a message to its supporters urging them to call Sears, Kmart, and JCPenney about the ads. “Ask them to continue to not fund the show, both broadcast and online,” the communication read.
“Djesus Uncrossed” featured Django Unchained co-star Christoph Waltz as Jesus. Following his crucifixion, he returns from the dead to exact revenge on those who killed him. The sketch was a parody of the Quentin Tarantino flick Django Unchained.
Are you a fan of SNL? Do you think the controversial skit was in poor taste?
