Colin Jost a notable personality from Saturday Night Live as co-anchor of "Weekend Update" who has a recent headline with a now well-known "joke swap" that has captured people across Social Media, talk shows and news outlets.
The Infamous “Weekend Update” Joke Swap
In this particular segment with Michael Che during SNL’s Christmas show the two writers exchanged jokes the other would have to present live to an audience. The result had jokes directed towards Jost's wife Scarlett Johansson who was watching from backstage. This segment became a major water cooler moment for online and television conversations.
The “Vagina Joke” and Reactions
Che prepared jokes for Jost that referenced various details of his life such as the details of his marriage with specific moments to include his wife. The “SNL” team was said to give Johansson a heads up about a "vagina joke." The plan was to shock the audience and did just that in all those that reacted during the event. It showed that they were well aware of what may take place as far as subject matter, and knew there would be multiple views given.
Costco Roast Beef Sandwich Analogy
One notable moment was a comparison of the Costco roast beef sandwich to his wife. While that happened cameras shifted to her in shock. She seemed unaware that specific information or that analogy would be part of the discussion. As the skit continued to play out, audiences responded very positively to that uncomfortably raw moment.
Wife, Scarlett Johansson's Response

After the show there was many mentions regarding how Johansson felt about it during his interview with Jimmy Fallon. While it appears she was shocked by what was said it’s also important to note that she did agree with some type of joke. The raw emotions from her, showcased how surprised and in disbelief she was over the jokes she heard publicly on live television.
The Intended Surprise
Josts reaction to all of it came off genuine because he states "I can’t act that well.” indicating that he had no previous knowledge of how far the jokes would go and he was discovering it at the same time as the audience. That authenticity helped people feel engaged and related to both of them during the time of delivery.
Personal Life of Colin Jost

Colin and Scarlett first met when she hosted SNL and were married in 2020 they share a son named Cosmo. Scarlett mentioned that Colin is an amazing person with a caring attitude however he also has a "naughty side" and it’s something she very much enjoys about their dynamic. These descriptions highlight his off-screen behavior in that although he is reserved there is always a more unexpected side which tends to pop up.
Balancing Comedy With Private Life
Though their relationship is public both try to maintain some parts of their lives away from the camera. This is a challenge when both are publicly viewed, so with that dynamic there is extra intention needed to navigate private moments and to maintain personal time.
Other Reactions to “Joke Swap”

After this episode aired it highlighted what was happening with online communities. Many people created jokes of their own and posted memes. Social Media became a large platform for different reactions which ranged from shock, to joy to even some who were in disbelief about the exchange. There was great awareness that his real time emotions were being publicly showcased.
"Scarlett was genuinely so shocked.”
Josts quote became almost a slogan across all articles after it’s publishing highlighting a shock to all while also generating conversations among various outlets. This specific quote is a main focus in discussions as it showed the authenticity behind his statement while bringing clarity into what everyone witnessed.
Key Takeaways

- The “Weekend Update” joke swap had Colin Jost at the receiving end of jokes about his wife that became widely talked about.
- Scarlett Johansson, although given a warning still reacted with surprise and visible shock by the content.
- Jost claimed his reaction to the moments on screen were genuine, due to him also discovering information as he was presenting.
- The “Weekend Update” segment is always an opportunity to take characters in an extreme manner for comedic effect.
- Jost and Scarlett both see the humor in this very awkward moment with mutual love and respect in their family life.