Cecily Strong Bowed Out of ‘SNL’ Skit on ‘Genocide of Jews’ Testimony

Cecily Strong, former cast member of “Saturday Night Live,” recently made headlines for pulling out of a sketch that tackled the sensitive topic of the “genocide of Jews” hearing in Congress. The sketch, which aired on SNL, featured Strong playing the role of Rep. Elise Stefanik, a staunch supporter of Donald Trump.

According to reports, Strong felt uncomfortable with the sketch and decided to bow out right before the show started. She went through a dress rehearsal as Stefanik but ultimately decided that she couldn’t go through with it. As a result, she was replaced on air by Chloe Troast.

The sketch aimed to satirize last week’s explosive hearing on Capitol Hill, where Rep. Stefanik grilled university presidents about antisemitism on campuses. The hearing received significant attention, leading to some cringeworthy responses and even a resignation at UPENN.

It’s unclear why Strong felt uncomfortable with the sketch. Some speculate that it was due to the bit’s obvious political slant in mocking a Trump supporter, while others suggest it may have been because of its lack of humor. Many viewers and critics have panned the sketch, with Kenan Thompson being the only one receiving decent laughs.

Regardless of Strong’s reasons, her decision to pull out of the sketch has garnered attention and sparked a debate about the appropriateness of satirizing sensitive topics. The writing of the sketch was reportedly rushed, which may have contributed to its poor reception.

As for Strong, this would have been her first appearance on SNL since leaving the show in December 2022 after 11 seasons. It remains to be seen if she will return for future sketches or if her discomfort with this particular sketch will deter her from participating in similar projects.

SNL has yet to comment on the situation. However, the sketch’s negative reviews and the backlash faced by Troast suggest that the decision to tackle such a sensitive topic may not have been well-received. Strong’s withdrawal from the sketch may have been a smart move to avoid further criticism and controversy.

In conclusion, Cecily Strong’s decision to pull out of the SNL sketch addressing the “genocide of Jews” hearing in Congress has sparked a debate about the appropriateness of satirizing sensitive topics. Regardless of the reasons behind her withdrawal, it highlights the challenges faced by comedians when tackling controversial subjects.