Bowen Yang, the comedian and Saturday Night Live cast member, raised eyebrows during his recent appearance on The View. His larger-than-life presence and quick wit kept the audience entranced. While answering a question on his reluctance to impersonate J.D. Vance on SNL, Yang dropped this unexpected bomb. It won the hearts of the hosts and the audience at home! In a campaign appearance in September, he labeled Vance a “pope killer.” That comment provoked peals of hilarity and shock from co-hosts and guests alike.
The episode was an all-star reunion featuring the longtime presence and heavy hitters of the program, Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar and Sarah Haines. The compelling conversation started when Haines asked Yang why he was so resistant at first to play Vance on SNL. Yang cited imposter syndrome as a significant factor, stating, “I just thought there would be better people for it… It was my imposter syndrome. I was like, ‘There are better people for this.’”
As the hearing turned toward the nitty gritty of impersonation, all ears were on Vance’s distinctly Ohio, distinctly Appalachia growl. That’s precisely when Yang delivered his punchline.… It’s his comment about calling Vance a “pope killer” that really jumps out. It makes that moment feel especially poignant given the recent passing of Pope Francis on April 21. Just hours before his death, Pope Francis had greeted Vance.
Goldberg laughed at Yang’s joke and reiterated parts of it on air in feigned astonishment and agreement. Joy Behar though was clearly surprised by the bravado of Yang’s change. She quickly clarified, “He doesn’t mean it literally, he’s talking spiritually!” This statement underscored the diverging audience responses between the co-hosts, signaling whether or not the use of humor was welcome.
The segment showcased how humor can provoke varying responses, especially when touching upon sensitive topics such as recent events involving significant figures like Pope Francis. Yang’s joke had everyone in stitches and led to a hilarious exchange among the hosts. They humorously discussed the tension between comedy and deference due to public figures.
This incident is a perfect example of Bowen Yang’s distinct brand of comedy that laces hot takes with cold culture. His eagerness to attack the more challenging, controversial subjects speaks to his confidence. More broadly, it illuminates what a difficult time this is for comedians of all stripes.
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