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Entertainment · October 15, 2026

Michael Che dodges questions about Shane Gillis’ controversial ‘SNL’ monologue in awkward exchange

4 sources →

Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast member Michael Che appeared on the Today show to promote his new Netflix special, where he was questioned regarding a controversial monologue delivered by comedian Shane Gillis. During the Oct. 10 SNL broadcast, Gillis made jokes about women's gym attire that prompted backlash from several celebrities and former SNL cast members. Che largely avoided criticizing Gillis, characterizing the reaction with the phrase "that's comedy" and stating that he did not see the monologue until the next day because he was preparing his own material. Former cast members Ego Nwodim and Cecily Strong responded to the controversy on social media with satirical posts, while actor Dan Levy and others criticized the content as misogynistic.

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Reported by multiple outlets

  • Michael Che appeared on the Today show on Oct. 15 to promote his comedy special, 'Michael Che: Shot in Minnesota'.
  • Shane Gillis hosted SNL on Oct. 10 and joked that women at the gym dress like 'whores'.
  • Che responded to the controversy by saying 'That's comedy' and noted that 'some people don't' find it funny.
  • Che stated he did not see the monologue live because he was focusing on his own cue cards.
  • Ego Nwodim and Cecily Strong posted social media photos in gym attire in response to Gillis' joke.
  • Michael Che previously posted on Instagram anticipating that press questions would focus on Gillis.

Reported by only some outlets

  • Michael Che clarified on Instagram that he prefers to address issues with colleagues privately via text rather than through the media.
  • Kathy Griffin called Gillis a 'hack' while defending his right to make the comments.
  • Jenna Bush Hager stated she would be 'disgusted' if her husband spoke about women that way.
  • The Federal Communications Commission can fine up to $325,000 for expletives used on broadcast television, relevant to Gillis' apology for swearing in a sketch.
  • Comedian Tim Young characterized the backlash as 'attention-seeking behavior'.

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