Colin Jost’s Ferry Funny: Deconstructing the ‘Weekend Update’ Staple

Introduction

“Well, folks, the Staten Island Ferry is now offering a VIP experience… for the rats.” This is just one example, among many, of a Colin Jost ferry joke that has become a recurring, and often debated, segment of “Weekend Update” on *Saturday Night Live*. For years, the co-anchor and head writer of *SNL*, Colin Jost, has consistently revisited the topic of the Staten Island Ferry, often at the expense of the borough and its residents. While some find the recurring gag to be a clever, tongue-in-cheek observation of New York City life, others see it as a tired, repetitive, and even insensitive jab at a working-class community. This article will delve into the curious phenomenon of the Colin Jost ferry joke, exploring its origin, dissecting its humor (or lack thereof), analyzing the criticisms it has garnered, and ultimately questioning its place in the broader landscape of comedy and social commentary. The continued prevalence of the Colin Jost ferry joke on the *SNL* platform necessitates this critical assessment.

The Genesis of the Waterborne Wisecrack

The Colin Jost ferry joke didn’t materialize out of thin air. Its foundation lies in the unique cultural position of the Staten Island Ferry itself. This iconic vessel, offering a free ride across New York Harbor, is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a symbol of Staten Island, a borough often perceived as the underdog of New York City’s five boroughs. The ferry connects Staten Island to Manhattan, physically and metaphorically linking a more suburban, residential area to the bustling center of commerce and culture. This inherent contrast provides fertile ground for comedic exploitation.

Over Jost’s tenure on “Weekend Update,” the ferry joke has evolved, albeit subtly. Early iterations often focused on the ferry’s perceived lack of glamour or its association with the mundane routines of daily commuting. As time progressed, the jokes incorporated current events, often weaving the ferry into broader narratives about politics, urban decay, or social issues. It’s important to track these small shifts to understand the depth, or lack thereof, of the Colin Jost ferry joke repertoire.

One might ask if a specific incident or event prompted the initial focus on the ferry. It’s difficult to pinpoint a single catalyst, but the consistent presence of the ferry in local news, alongside Jost’s own New York upbringing, likely contributed to its selection as a comedic target. Furthermore, *SNL* frequently draws inspiration from local stories that have a broad appeal. Therefore, the selection of the ferry as a subject for humor could be attributed to this wider trend of selecting local material for national consumption.

Deconstructing the Laughter, or the Absence Thereof

A typical Colin Jost ferry joke follows a familiar formula. The setup usually presents a seemingly straightforward news item or observation, often related to New York City or current events. The punchline then twists this information, unexpectedly linking it back to the Staten Island Ferry in a way that is intended to be absurd or ironic. The targets of these jokes vary, but they often include:

• Staten Island and its residents: Jokes may play on stereotypes about Staten Islanders, their lifestyle, or their perceived lack of sophistication.
• The ferry itself: The jokes may focus on the ferry’s age, its maintenance issues, or its perceived lack of amenities.
• Broader societal issues: Sometimes, the ferry serves as a metaphor for larger social problems, such as economic inequality or political dysfunction.

The comedic devices employed in the Colin Jost ferry joke are fairly standard. Exaggeration is a common tool, amplifying minor inconveniences or perceived flaws to create a humorous effect. Stereotypes are often invoked, reinforcing preconceived notions about Staten Island and its inhabitants. Irony also plays a role, highlighting the disparity between the ferry’s humble reality and the grand image of New York City.

Despite the use of these standard comedic devices, not everyone finds the Colin Jost ferry joke amusing. Some argue that the jokes are predictable, relying on tired tropes and lacking genuine wit. Others find them to be mean-spirited, perceiving them as attacks on a vulnerable community. Understanding these varying perspectives is crucial when analyzing the comedy.

The question of whether the Colin Jost ferry joke is a local gag that fails to resonate with a broader audience is also worth considering. While New Yorkers are undoubtedly more familiar with the Staten Island Ferry, the jokes are often presented in a way that assumes a general understanding of the ferry’s place in the city’s cultural landscape. If that understanding is absent, the humor may be lost.

A Sea of Criticism: When Humor Runs Aground

The Colin Jost ferry joke has not been without its detractors. Criticisms range from accusations of laziness and predictability to concerns about insensitivity and elitism. Many argue that the jokes punch down, targeting a working-class community that is already facing economic and social challenges.

Media coverage of the controversy surrounding the Colin Jost ferry joke is somewhat limited, but online forums and social media platforms are filled with comments expressing disapproval. Some Staten Islanders have voiced their frustration with being the constant butt of jokes on a national platform. The narrative of the Colin Jost ferry joke being unwelcome is becoming more and more prevalent.

Those who defend the joke often argue that it is simply satire, not meant to be taken literally. They contend that all comedy involves making fun of something or someone, and that Staten Island is no exception. Some also suggest that the jokes are harmless and that critics are overreacting. It’s important to consider these other sides to the argument to present the full picture.

Staten Island Speaks: A Local Perspective

Perhaps the most crucial aspect of understanding the impact of the Colin Jost ferry joke is to consider the perspective of Staten Islanders themselves. Obtaining this perspective requires going beyond the surface-level criticisms and seeking out genuine voices from the community. The prevailing sentiment among Staten Islanders regarding the Colin Jost ferry joke is varied. Some find it funny, recognizing the humor in poking fun at their own quirks and experiences. Others find it offensive, feeling that it perpetuates negative stereotypes and reinforces a sense of being looked down upon by the rest of New York City. Still others simply find it tiresome, a repetitive gag that has long outstayed its welcome.

It’s also important to consider how the jokes affect the perception of Staten Island as a whole. Do they contribute to a negative image of the borough? Do they reinforce the idea that Staten Island is somehow less important or less sophisticated than the other boroughs? These are difficult questions to answer definitively, but they are essential to understanding the broader implications of the Colin Jost ferry joke.

Comedy’s Compass: Ethics and Social Commentary

To fully understand the Colin Jost ferry joke, it must be placed within the broader context of *SNL*, comedy, and social commentary. “Weekend Update” is, after all, a platform for exploring current events through a comedic lens. The Colin Jost ferry joke, whether successful or not, is an example of how *SNL* engages with local issues and attempts to find humor in the everyday realities of urban life.

However, the ethics of comedy are always a subject of debate. When does a joke cross the line? Is it ever acceptable to make fun of certain groups or topics? These are questions that comedians, writers, and audiences grapple with constantly.

*SNL* has a long history of dealing with controversy, and the Colin Jost ferry joke is just one example of a comedic bit that has sparked debate. In the past, the show has responded to criticism by tweaking its approach, issuing apologies, or even retiring certain characters or segments. It remains to be seen whether the controversy surrounding the Colin Jost ferry joke will lead to any changes in the show’s approach.

Navigating the Waters: A Final Assessment

The Colin Jost ferry joke is more than just a series of punchlines about a boat. It’s a reflection of the complex relationship between comedy, community, and social commentary. Whether it’s a harmless running gag or a problematic example of punching down, it has undoubtedly left its mark on the cultural landscape of New York City.

Ultimately, the effectiveness and impact of the Colin Jost ferry joke are subjective and depend on individual perspectives. Some will continue to find it funny, while others will continue to find it offensive. Regardless of one’s personal opinion, the joke serves as a reminder of the power of comedy to both entertain and provoke, to unite and divide. Will the ferry jokes continue, or will changing sensitivities lead to their eventual retirement? And what does that say about the evolution of comedy in the twenty-first century? It is on this wave of questioning, that we sail towards the next comedic horizon.