As I reflect on Julia Sweeney’s iconic character Pat from Saturday Night Live, it’s hard not to feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. Who could forget those hilarious sketches where Pat’s gender ambiguity was the main joke? But what many people may not know is that behind the laughter and good times, there were also some tough moments for Julia Sweeney herself.
In an interview with People magazine, Julia revealed how criticism from certain members of the queer community initially broke her heart. Her friend Joey Soloway, creator of Transparent, was one such critic who felt that Pat was derogatory towards nonbinary people and upset by its portrayal on SNL. This feedback left Julia feeling hurt and unsure about the character’s impact.
However, as time went on, Julia learned that many nonbinary and transgender comedians identified with Pat, finding it a rare representation of someone who didn’t conform to traditional gender roles. Last month, she even met with a team of trans comedy writers to discuss how she could “reinvent” the character for modern audiences.
The meeting left her feeling proud and emotional, realizing just how much Pat meant to many people. For Julia, it was a moment of clarity that allowed her to see the impact Pat had on others in a new light. As she said during an appearance on the Fly on the Wall podcast, “Now I feel like… okay, that was okay.”
Julia’s journey with Pat is a powerful reminder of how art can have far-reaching consequences and bring people together across generations. It’s also a testament to Julia’s own growth as an artist and her willingness to learn from criticism.
As we look back on the character of Pat, it’s clear that its impact extends beyond just laughter and good times. For many nonbinary and transgender comedians, Pat was a beacon of representation in a time when they may have felt like there were few people who understood their experiences. And for Julia Sweeney herself, Pat became an opportunity to grow as an artist and connect with others on a deeper level.
In the end, it’s not just about the jokes or the laughter – it’s about how art can bring us together and make us feel seen.