Hook: In the most recent episode of CBS’s comedy show, “After Midnight”, things took a rather controversial turn. Host Taylor Tomlinson, along with guest comedians, seized a social media video as an occasion to lob distasteful jibes at Christianity, stirring up mockery of the faith.
Body: It all started when Tomlinson presented a TikTok skit by @julianprospers, a post intended to call attention to humans’ hesitation in committing fully to Christ. Tomlinson cynically used this as a springboard for humor. Her story of a broken relationship with Jesus Christ revealed a deep-seated insensitivity that isn’t too surprising in today’s culture of quick, cheap laughs.
Things started heating up when guest Jay Jurden decided to join the bandwagon. His first comment was an underhanded dig at anyone with religious convictions against homosexuality. Todd Barry followed suit with a lame joke about Jesus not being good at texting back, trivializing the spiritual connection believers maintain with God.
Then, Bassem Youssef jumped in with criticism that sounded too close to blasphemous territory. He threw around potentially inflammatory comments, pretending to be unsure if Jesus adhered to heterosexual norms. The panel’s increasing irreverence showcased how they could freely undermine and disrespect religious convictions, all under the guise of humor.
It’s curious that these comedians didn’t consider the ramifications of their so-called jokes. I understand dark humor and satire are part angles of comedy, but surely, there’s a line that shouldn’t be crossed, especially on a public platform with wide reach.
The original TikToker, Prospers, who appears to be a man of faith, uses his social media to advocate for a dedicated relationship with Jesus Christ. But his earnest messages seem to have been lost on Tomlinson and her crew. Rather than approach this with any level of respect, the panel let sniggers and disrespect rain over his faith.
Meanwhile, CBS seems to have missed the casual disrespect served to millions of believers on their platform by their employees. The episode telecasted without any punitive action, hinting at a worrying trend of indifference toward religious beliefs that don’t fit the mainstream narrative.
Conclusion: Freedom of speech and humor shouldn’t translate into a free pass to belittle the beliefs of millions. The lack of sensitivity towards religious beliefs displayed on a major network’s comedy show is concerning. In an age crying out for inclusivity and tolerance, jests divorcing respect and decency can’t and shouldn’t be the norm.
