‘SNL’ Sparks Controversy With Moo Deng Sketch Targeting Chappell Roan
A Saturday Night Live sketch featuring internet sensation Moo Deng as a parody of Chappell Roan is facing significant criticism on social media. Roan has been in the headlines multiple times recently. Earlier this month, the pop singer revealed her diagnosis of “severe depression,” linking her symptoms to her sudden rise to fame and the drastic changes in her life.
In August, she took to TikTok to express her concerns about “weird” and “creepy” followers, calling out the “predatory behaviour” of so-called “superfans,” which includes “nonconsensual physical and social interactions.”
Last week, Roan faced backlash after stating that she would not support either Donald Trump or Kamala Harris, claiming there are “problems on both sides.” She later elaborated on her comments in a TikTok video, encouraging people to use critical thinking to “learn about what they’re voting for” and to “ask questions.”
Image Courtesy: Good Morning America
Earlier this week, she announced her decision to withdraw from the All Things Go Festival in New York City and Washington, D.C., to prioritize her health.
Now, the SNL sketch featuring cast member Bowen Yang dressed as the viral pygmy hippo Moo Deng, mimicking Roan’s comments about fame, has sparked backlash.
“For the past ten weeks, I’ve been going non-stop, running around, eating lettuce, trying to bite the water from a hose,” he said. “And the response has been overwhelming but it has come to the point where I need to set some boundaries.
“Reminder – women owe you nothing. When I’m in my enclosure, tripping over stuff, biting my trainer’s knee, I am at work. That is the project. Do not yell my name, or expect a photo just because I’m your parasocial bestie, but because you appreciate my talent.”
“Before me the only hippos in media were Hungry Hungry and Jada Pinkett-Smith in Madagascar. But now, I’m your favourite hippo’s favourite hippo.”
Many people online have criticized SNL for what they see as insensitivity toward Roan’s response to her sudden rise to fame.
“i honestly feel so bad for chappell roan because literally all she said was “please treat me like a human being” and everyone is making fun of her constantly for that,” one X/Twitter user said.
Another said: “Hey, guys, you know that young pop star who’s spent the last week being harassed, abused, attacked and threatened by lunatics for having some issues with the Democratic Party? Let’s kick her when she’s down. That’ll be f**king hilarious.”
Image Courtesy: Reddit
A third said: “Men mocking a woman who set clear boundaries to be safe because her family was stalked, she was s**ually assaulted, and severely harassed. They can f**k all the way off. Women don’t owe you sh*t.”
Others noted that the sentiment felt off, especially since Roan is scheduled to perform as a musical guest on the show in November.
In related news, Lily Allen recently commended Roan for “changing the landscape” regarding fan behaviour and personal boundaries for artists. Allen remarked that it’s “really amazing” that Roan is aware of herself, understands her boundaries, and is willing to articulate them early in her career, despite the potential backlash she might face.
“It’s kind of amazing to come out the gates and be like, ‘No, this is not gonna happen with me. I don’t care if I lose it all’.”
–Silviya.Y
