Carlin on SNL - Could he do the routine on religion today?

[Hokie]

George Carlin's last routing on the first Saturday Night was on religion and was openly critical. I wonder if a modern comedian could do that routine today on network TV. I think it passed muster for NBC only because it was in the context of Carlin's death and a rerun of the first show. It is sad that 30 years later we have regressed to the point that his routine would be more controversial now that it was in 1975.

[Warpy]

1. The religious right is throwing its weight around

completely out of proportion to its numbers simply because lax enforcement of tax laws governing churches that turn into political organizations has allowed it to.

The only permanence is impermanence. The old guard is aging rapidly and their heirs are magnificently corrupt. Most of us will see the demise of this particular fascist horror show and be around to dance on its grave.

Carlin was always a visionary and in a totalitarian country, only comedians are allowed to speak the truth. He will remain far longer in our memories than any of the bad smells on the lunatic religious right.

[YankeyMCC]

2. Similar to the question of could you do "All in the Family" today

I think the answer to your question is definitely "no" at least for broadcast networks. On Cable it could be done.

In the old broadcast networks I think things have gone backwards for the most part in terms of the free flow of ideas and the stomach for dealing with challenging issues of any kind and today that certainly includes religion.