Jimmy Fallon apologizes for Chris Rock impersonation in blackface on ‘SNL’
(CNN)Jimmy Fallon is addressing his impersonation of Chris Rock in a “Saturday Night Dwell” sketch from 20 years ago in which he seemed in blackface.
Fallon issued an apology on Tuesday after video and criticism of the sketch, which on the starting keep aired on “SNL” in 2000, resurfaced on social media.
“While on SNL, I made a frightening resolution to realize an impersonation of Chris Rock while in blackface. There’s no longer any excuse for this,” “The Tonight Gift” host wrote in a tweet. “I’m very sorry for making this undoubtedly offensive resolution and thank all of you for retaining me to blame.”
Fallon changed into as soon as a solid member on “Saturday Night Dwell” from 1998 to 2004. Rock starred on “SNL” from 1990 to 1993.
In the sketch, which is no longer posted on NBC or the train’s web sites, Fallon seemed as Rock on a discuss train hosted by Regis Philbin (carried out by Darrell Hammond).
Fallon joins plenty of entertainment figures, including Sarah Silverman, who hang apologized for offensive comedy in their previous following on-line criticism.
CNN has reached out to representatives for Fallon and “SNL” for further speak.