Saturday Night Live comedians Colin Jost and Michael Che faced criticism for their involvement in a DraftKings Sportsbook ad aired during Super Bowl 60. In response to the backlash, Che addressed it on his Instagram.
The highly anticipated Super Bowl 2026 took place on February 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
During the opening quarter of the matchup between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Hawks, viewers were introduced to a commercial featuring Jost and Che. Both are recognized for their roles on the popular NBC show Saturday Night Live.
In the 30-second spot, the duo promoted DraftKings’ live betting capabilities.
Che stated, “Tonight, live bet the game on DraftKings to score your share of $5 million in prizes. There’s so many options to bet on, like…”
Another voice chimed in, suggesting bets on “Seattle or New England, next TD.”
Their participation in the ad sparked online debate, with many expressing disapproval of their endorsement of sports gambling.
One user on X commented, “I like Michael Che and Colin Jost so much that I don’t like to see them doing an ad for sports gambling, which, I think, has not been good for sports, or a lot of people. Okay, back to the game.”
Another added, “Sports betting corrupts sports, all the way back to the 1919 Black Sox scandal. College sports will eventually also be impacted, if not already. If your loyalty is money over team, you don’t belong anywhere in the sports world.”
A third wrote, “I am disappointed in every celebrity who chooses to promote gambling. I know it must be hard to say no to big money, but gambling is a serious problem with many folks and should not be encouraged.”
Following the criticism, Che subtly addressed the issue on his Instagram stories.
After posting behind-the-scenes footage of the commercial, Che shared a blank image accompanied by the caption: “Look. I got a mortgage, ok.”
Despite Che’s comment, discussions continued on Reddit, with users sharing their strong opinions.
On the subreddit r/LiveFromNewYork, one person wrote, “Che and Jost doing a sports betting commercial during the superbowl GTFO. Sh*t is disgusting and disturbing no matter how much the sportsbooks pay.”
Another user added, “Yes! It’s so predatory and my nephew got himself in the hole at like 19 years old. Obscene amount of sports betting ads, for sure.”
DraftKings Sportsbook’s Instagram bio highlights the age restrictions for participating in its offerings and provides a helpline for those facing gambling problems: “18+ DC/KY/NH/WY. 21+ other eligible U.S. states. 19+ONT. Gambling problem? 1-800-GAMBLER or visit link. Email for support.”
Please gamble responsibly. For help, support, and advice about problem gambling, call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER, available 24/7.