Chris Rock Said He Wasn't Joking About 9/11, but Listen for Yourself and Decide If He Crossed a Line

Is terrorism a laughing matter?

Chris Rock delivered the opening monologue on this week's episode of "Saturday Night Live," and his choice of topics — the Boston Marathon bombing, and the likelihood that the Freedom Tower in New York City will be attacked just as the World Trade Center was — drew decidedly mixed reactions.

The Boston Marathon bombing was, "the most frightening, sadistic terrorist attack ever," Rock said, joking that forcing tired marathon runners to run again at the finish line was a particularly cruel tactic.

Rock also joked about 9/11, saying, "They should change the name from the 'Freedom Tower' to the 'Never Going In There Tower,'" about the new skyscraper that has been built in place of the destroyed World Trade Center towers.

The Freedom Tower, or One World Trade Center, rises above the New York City skyline. (Image via Adam Fagen/flickr)

He went further, asking such questions as, "Does the building duck?" and, "Who's the corporate sponsor, Target?"

Then he claimed that he wasn't actually joking about 9/11.

Watch the monologue below:

Online, some thought Rock's jokes were funny...

Loved Chris Rock's monologue on #SNL

— Andy Cohen (@Andy) November 2, 2014

...some found them offensive...

That had to be the worst monolog ever for #SNL #sucked tasteless comedy terrorism is not funny ever. #shame on you Chris Rock

— FastEddy (@Brasss88)

November 2, 2014

...and others just thought the whole thing fell "flat."

This Chris Rock SNL monologue is falling very very flat.

— Rick Wilson (@TheRickWilson) November 2, 2014

This opening monologue by Chris Rock on #SNL is a little uncomfortable. Talking Boston marathon bombing and 9/11.

— Simon Ostler (@SimonOstler) November 2, 2014

What do you think? Take the poll below and discuss.

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Follow Zach Noble (@thezachnoble) on Twitter