(RNS) — A video skit by the comedian known as Druski went viral last week for its parody of prosperity gospel preachers and megachurch culture, prompting criticism of both megachurches and comedians who mock megachurches.
In his video captioned “Mega Church Pastors LOVE Money,” the 31-year-old comedian, whose real name is Drew Desbordes, impersonates a rowdy megachurch preacher ostentatiously displaying his wealth.
Though some praised the comical aspect of the video, it also prompted fierce discussions, particularly among Black Christians, over just how much money a pastor should make and appropriate attire for the pulpit. Some also denounced the video as bordering on mockery of the Christian faith.
The video, published on Jan. 13, came on the heels of a controversy sparked by Pastor Jamal Bryant’s wife, Karri Tuner, who drew criticism for wearing a black sheer dress with a nude underlay to a United Negro College Fund fundraiser in late December in Atlanta. The outfit caused a stir, with some criticizing Turner as not being modest enough.
Druski’s minute-long video, filmed in a real church, boasts 46.6 million views and 8.5 million likes on TikTok, as well as 3.7 million likes on Instagram. It opens with the comedian zip-lining onto a church stage while Kirk Franklin’s hit “Revolution” blasts.
The scene replicates a November 2018 clip of Brown Missio …