Mix 'Saturday Night Live,' Al Sharpton and the Topic of Race & You Get This Priceless Skit

"Saturday Night Live" responded to growing criticism the show has faced for the lack of diversity in its cast the only way the comedy show knows how — by turning it into a joke.

In Saturday's opening scene, black actress Kerry Washington played first lady Michelle Obama and talk-show host Oprah Winfrey, before being asked to change again to portray singer Beyonce.

Actress Kerry Washington as first lady Michelle Obama. (Image source: NBC)

Actress Kerry Washington as talk-show host Oprah Winfrey. (Image source: NBC)

"The producers at 'Saturday Night Live' would like to apologize to Kerry Washington for the number of black women she will be asked to play tonight," scrolling words joked on the screen. "We made these requests both because Ms. Washington is an actress of considerable range and talent and also because 'SNL' does not currently have a black woman in the cast."

"As for the latter reason, we agree that this is not an ideal situation and look forward to rectifying it in the near future," the text continued. "Unless of course, we fall in love with another white guy first."

The late-night comedy show then further stressed the amount of white cast members they employ by showcasing their ability to have six different actors play actor Matthew McConaughey on screen at once.

At the conclusion of the skit, civil rights icon Rev. Al Sharpton made a cameo appearance.

"What have we learned from this sketch?" he asked. "As usual, absolutely nothing."

Watch the skit:

--

Follow Oliver Darcy (@oliverdarcy) on Twitter

[related]