Oasis Brothers Parody on Saturday Night Live Sparks Cultural Discontent

The latest episode of “Saturday Night Live” has sparked a wave of discontent among British viewers following the broadcast of a sketch parodying the notoriously quarrelsome Oasis brothers, Noel and Liam Gallagher. The skit, part of the popular “Weekend Update” segment, featured cast members James Austin Johnson and Sarah Sherman imitating the Mancunian siblings.

In the sketch, the pair exaggerated the brothers’ infamous disputes, using over-the-top English accents and comical sibling bickering. Despite their differences, the characters in the sketch agreed on several humorous points, including their fictional admiration for cartoon characters such as Donatello and Tommy Pickles.

Liam Gallagher, in response to a fan inquiry, voiced his disapproval of the parody on social media platform X, labeling the skit “excruciating.” He further remarked, “I wouldn’t expect anything else,” reflecting his apparent disdain for the comedic take on their relationship.

The reaction among British viewers highlighted multiple grievances, primarily revolving around the perceived inaccuracy of the accents used in the “SNL” skit. Since the Gallagher brothers are from Manchester in North West England, the sketch’s London-centric accents were seen as misplaced. British users criticized it as emblematic of a wider misunderstanding of cultural nuances in accents, which can suggest regional backgrounds, class distinctions, and societal prejudices.

The criticism extended beyond mere accent issues. Many British viewers found the comedy itself uninspired and awkward, with some describing it as “cringe-inducing.” This sentiment was echoed by Gallagher’s own reaction, suggesting a broader disconnect between the comedic sensibilities of American and British audiences.

The broader implications of this reception point towards the evolving nature of global online culture. While platforms like YouTube and Netflix have facilitated a shared cultural experience, allowing individuals worldwide to engage with content simultaneously, intrinsic national comedic differences persist. Ian Hislop, a regular panelist on the long-running UK program “Have I Got News For You,” contrasts to American television by often showcasing a more biting and cynical style of humour.

The Gallagher brothers, who are planning a highly anticipated 2025 reunion tour marking the 30th anniversary of their album “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?”, continue to be a subject of public and media interest. The differences in humour highlighted by the “SNL” sketch underscore the lasting discrepancies between American and British comedic preferences, despite the seeming proximity facilitated by digital platforms.