Full Breakdown
Rage Against the Machine's Infamous Saturday Night Live Incident
4/14/2026, 12:31:12 PM
The On-Stage Conflict
On April 13, 1996, Rage Against the Machine made headlines during their appearance on Saturday Night Live (SNL) when they were banned from the show after only one performance. The band was promoting their sophomore album, *Evil Empire*, and began their set with the song "Bulls on Parade." However, tensions escalated when SNL crew members removed upside-down American flags that the band had hung on their amplifiers just moments before going live. This act of censorship set the stage for further conflict.
The Dressing Room Incident
Following their first performance, SNL informed Rage Against the Machine that their second song, "Bullet in the Head," would be cut due to time constraints. Tom Morello, the band's guitarist, described this moment as a critical misstep by the show's producers. He recounted that the band was left alone after the announcement, which allowed bassist Tim Commerford to express his frustration in a dramatic manner. Commerford took one of the American flags, tore it up, and fashioned it into a ball, which he then threw into the dressing room of SNL host Steve Forbes, who was not present at the time but had family members there.
The Aftermath and Consequences
The incident quickly escalated, leading to a significant security response. Morello noted that the hallway was flooded with Secret Service agents, who were there to protect Forbes and his family. Although the makeshift projectile did not cause any harm, it was perceived as a potential threat, resulting in the band being escorted out of the building. Morello recalled, “We get escorted out and put on the sidewalk at 30 Rock,” marking the end of their SNL appearance and their permanent ban from the show.
Official Statements & Responses
In reflecting on the incident, Morello expressed that the band’s actions were a form of protest against censorship and authority. He stated, “Timmy doesn’t like things like that, and he expresses himself.” The band’s performance and subsequent ejection became emblematic of their anti-establishment ethos, which resonated with their fanbase.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the band’s actions argue that their behavior was reckless and inappropriate for a live television setting. The decision to throw a makeshift projectile into a dressing room, even if harmless, was seen by some as crossing a line, particularly given the political context of Forbes being a presidential candidate at the time.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Today’s the 30th anniversary of RATM’S um, 'memorable' performance on SNL,” — Tom Morello, Guitarist
- “So Timmy launches his American flag ball rocket at aunts, cousins, wives, children.” — Tom Morello, Guitarist
- “We’re now locked in our room. They’re protecting Steve Forbes and his family.” — Tom Morello, Guitarist
This incident remains a significant moment in both the history of SNL and the legacy of Rage Against the Machine, illustrating the band's commitment to their principles and the unpredictable nature of live television.
