Sheryl Underwood Responds to Tony Hinchcliffe’s Backlash

The recent Netflix Kevin Hart roast certainly delivered some unforgettable moments, but one particular segment sparked significant online debate. Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe found himself facing considerable backlash after making jokes about the tragic suicide of Sheryl Underwood’s late husband during the live event.

A Joke That Cut Too Deep

During his set, Hinchcliffe made a series of remarks referencing the death of Underwood’s husband, Michael Sparkman. One particularly jarring line stated, “Her husband committed suicide three years into the marriage. I’ve been sitting next to her for two hours, and I have to ask: how did he last that long?”

While the nature of a roast often involves pushing boundaries, this particular joke clearly crossed a line for many viewers. The moment was captured on camera, showing Underwood appearing to laugh along with the audience, but the online reaction suggested a deeper discomfort with the subject matter.

Sheryl Underwood’s Sharp Comeback

However, Sheryl Underwood wasn’t about to let the jokes go unanswered. She fired back with her own witty retort, directly addressing Hinchcliffe. Her response playfully questioned who had more experience with Black men in town, herself or Chelsea Handler, before naming Tony Hinchcliffe as the answer.

It’s worth noting that host Shane Gillis also touched on the sensitive topic earlier in the evening, making a joke about Underwood’s husband jumping from a building. This indicates that the roast’s material was generally edgy, but Hinchcliffe’s specific comments about the suicide clearly resonated as particularly harsh.

A Personal Tragedy Remembered

Sheryl Underwood has been open about the profound impact of losing her husband, Michael Sparkman, who died by suicide in 1990 after a battle with depression. She shared in 2018 that the pain of his loss is something that “doesn’t go away,” and that he left behind a note, giving him “the final word.”

Despite the controversy, Underwood seemed unfazed when speaking with TMZ after the event. She embraced the spirit of free expression, stating, “Freedom of speech is alive and well at Netflix.” This suggests she’s able to take the jokes aimed at her in stride, even when they touch on deeply personal and painful subjects.

Support is Available

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know that help is available. You can reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 in the United States and Canada. You are not alone.