Saturday Night Live once again found itself at the center of a viral political debate following the latest installment of Weekend Update. Comedian Michael Che delivered a sharp, unexpected jab at New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani during a segment covering King Charles’ recent visit to the United States.
The joke centered on the monarch’s diplomatic meetings, with Che remarking that he was surprised the King did not take Mamdani back to England because he is an Indian treasure. The comment was a direct reference to Mamdani’s well-documented advocacy for the repatriation of the Koh-i-Noor diamond.
The historic gem, which was seized by the British East India Company during the 19th century, remains a significant point of contention between the United Kingdom and India. By framing the Mayor as a treasure to be reclaimed, Che managed to blend current political discourse with the long-standing historical grievances surrounding the British Crown Jewels.
The reaction to the segment was immediate and polarized across social media platforms. Supporters of the show praised the writing for its ability to weave complex geopolitical issues into a quick, biting punchline that highlights the absurdity of modern diplomatic optics.
Conversely, some viewers expressed discomfort with the framing of the joke, arguing that the history of colonial exploitation is too sensitive for such casual treatment. Critics suggested that the humor trivialized the serious efforts of leaders like Mamdani to address historical injustices.
This moment is consistent with the long-running sketch show’s history of using Weekend Update as a platform for bold, often polarizing political commentary. By targeting both the royal visit and the specific policy stances of local officials, the writers ensured the segment would dominate the news cycle throughout the week.
Whether the joke was viewed as a brilliant piece of satire or an insensitive misstep, it successfully kept the conversation regarding the Koh-i-Noor diamond in the public eye. As SNL continues to navigate the complexities of modern political satire, moments like these serve as a reminder of the show's enduring influence on the national discourse.