Eminem returned to Saturday Night Live as the musical guest for the latest episode, but his return was tarnished because of one questionable word.
During his time on air, the 45-year-old rapper performed a medley of his hits, as well as his new single “Walk on Water.” The new single is the section that left a bad taste in some viewers’ mouths.
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Eminem used the word “retarded” in a derogatory way during the episode, and people were surprised it wasn’t either censored or altered for the live performance.
“Kids look to me as a god, this is retarded,” Eminem rapped. “If only they knew, it’s a facade, and it’s exhaustive.”
After hearing the word used on a live broadcast, users took to Twitter to express their distaste.
“It’s disappointing to hear Eminem use the word ‘retarded’ on live TV,” one fan wrote.
Another added, “All these throwbacks Eminem is singing [are] dope. ‘Stan’ is my jam, but can we talk about how his new raps still have ‘retarded’ in them? This isn’t the ’90s anymore, Em.”
They let Eminem say “retarded” on SNL, though? In 2017? Do better.
— Katherine Elise (@Kattorney) November 19, 2017
Its disappointing to hear @Eminem use the word “retarded” on live TV. #SNL
— Joshua (@waflerthomas) November 19, 2017
Okay all these throwbacks Eminem is singing is dope, Stan is my jam. But can we talk about how his new raps still have “retarded” in them lol. This isn’t the 90s anymore EM.
— Chanel (@ChanelCSmith) November 19, 2017
Disclaimer: I’m not a Trump supporter. But, it’s a little ironic that Eminem shat all over Trump for comments that he’s made over the years, but it’s 2017 and he’s still using the word “retarded” in his songs. 😒 #SNL
— Corey Bigbie (@BigbieMusic) November 19, 2017
Just saw Eminem on SNL and he used the word retarded in a derogatory way. I’ve never been a fan of him but now I have no use for him.
— Patrick Carden (@cardenpd) November 19, 2017
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