Comedian Tim Dillon provoked mixed reactions as he appeared as the “ghost” of slain UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson during Netflix’s "Torching 2024: A Roast of the Year." The special debuted on December 27, 2023, just weeks after Thompson was shot and killed on December 4, 2023, sparking controversy over the appropriateness of Dillon’s portrayal.
At The Bellwether in Los Angeles, Dillon, 39, donned attire reminiscent of Thompson’s last formal outfit—a navy blue pullover and tan khakis, layered with chains for dramatic effect. His face was painted with ghoulish gray makeup, and he entered the stage under the ominous title “UnitedHellcare CEO,” hinting at the dark humor to follow.
“I’m going to hell for this, you might as well laugh,” Dillon openingly admitted, quickly addressing the audience’s mixed feelings over Thompson's tragic death. He remarked, “Your reaction to my murder makes me sick… and not the type of sick I would immediately deny for not having the proper paperwork,” referencing UnitedHealthcare's notable history of claim rejections.
Dillon's commentary continued to lean heavily on satire as he impersonated Thompson’s final thoughts about his job, claiming, “I love my job. I do, because I help people— not by giving them healthcare, but by denying it!” This line elicited both laughter and discomfort from the audience, exemplifying the fine line he treaded between humor and insensitivity.
The backdrop to this performance involves the shocking murder of Brian Thompson, 50, allegedly orchestrated by Luigi Mangione, 26. Mangione faces multiple serious charges, including first-degree murder and various counts related to terrorism. He was arrested following the shooting outside the Hilton Hotel and was noted for his affluent background and Ivy League education—a stark juxtaposition to the violence of his alleged actions.
Dillon's irreverent humor continued as he jabbed at Mangione directly, quipping about the alleged assassin’s back issues: “Look at yourselves dancing in the streets because Tortellini Mozzarella took me by surprise like unexpected medical bills.” This line, mixed with Dillon's comedic critiques of the healthcare industry, drove home the irony of the situation during the roast.
His performance not only reflected on the reprehensible act of Thompson’s murder but also highlighted broader societal issues surrounding the healthcare system. Dillon proclaimed, “Without people like me, f***ing over people like you, to help people like me, this country would fall apart, and that's on you.”
Ending his set with the line "Deny, defend, decompose," Dillon orchestrated yet another point of connection to the controversial narrative surrounding Thompson's death and the health insurance industry, leaving the crowd both laughing and unsettled. This chant directly referenced statements allegedly written by Mangione concerning his actions.
Despite the intentional humor, many viewers found Dillon’s performance to be distasteful and crass. Reactions on social media varied, with some criticizing Netflix and Dillon for capitalizing on tragedy. One user on X remarked on the insensitivity by stating, “Hoping he meets the same fate as the CEO of UnitedHealthcare.” Others described the performance as “cringe” and “not comedy,” underscoring the polarized reception of Dillon’s approach.
While the roast format traditionally pushes the boundaries of humor, Dillon's choice to tackle such sensitive topics shortly after real-life tragedy has spurred heated debates within the comedy community and beyond. The line between comedy and tragedy has always been blurred, yet Dillon’s latest performance has raised significant questions about timing, taste, and the responsibilities of comedians with such powerful platforms.
The special hosted by comedian Jeff Ross included other prominent figures from the entertainment world, adding layers of commentary and satire throughout. Actor John Stamos along with fellow comics Mark Normand and Sam Morril contributed to the eclectic lineup, but Dillon's ghostly portrayal of Thompson certainly stole the show, for every possible reason.
Whether viewers will continue supporting Dillon’s work following this performance remains uncertain. The backlash does indicate, though, the continuously changing dynamics of acceptable humor, particularly when it involves discussions of real-world violence and death.
Indeed, as Dillon himself noted during the performance, the topic is grim, but he seemingly embraces this discomfort. "If you’re happy I’m dead, the joke’s on you. Most people think I’m out of the game right now because I’m rotting in hell. Wrong! I’m working remote, and harder than ever."
This roast, though intended as dark humor, serves as a reflection on the ceaseless challenges facing the healthcare system and society's reaction to tragedy. For now, Dillon’s daring performance will echo both appreciation for comedy's risk-taking nature and condemnation for its potential fallout.
