Michael Che Sidesteps Questions on Shane Gillis' Controversial 'SNL' Monologue
The 'Weekend Update' co-host offered brief, non-committal responses when questioned about Gillis' recent remarks.
Michael Che, a long-time fixture on "Saturday Night Live," deflected inquiries regarding comedian Shane Gillis' recent controversial "SNL" monologue during an interview on NBC's "Today" show.
Che, who co-hosts "Weekend Update," was asked by "Today" anchor Laura Jarrett about an Instagram Story he posted earlier in the week. In the post, Che had commented on how Gillis' monologue might affect his upcoming press tour for a new comedy special, writing, "go to do more press this week to promote the special. wonder what every questions gonna be about 🙄… Thanks a lot shane."
When Jarrett pressed Che about Gillis' monologue, which contained remarks about women at the gym, and the ensuing backlash, Che responded, "That’s comedy. It’s like, you think it’s funny and then some people don’t."
Pressed further on whether he found Gillis' comments amusing, Che stated he was focused on his own cue cards at the time and didn't see the monologue until the following day. "I didn’t think about it honestly," he said after a noticeable pause when asked for his reaction after seeing it.
Che explained that not all "SNL" cast members review scripts for hosts' monologues in advance, and he prefers to concentrate on his and Colin Jost's "Weekend Update" segment. Gillis' monologue, which aired Saturday, drew criticism for jokes including observations about women's gym attire.
Other figures from "Saturday Night Live" have reacted to Gillis' monologue. Former cast member Ego Nwodim humorously responded on Instagram, posting a picture of herself at the gym and captioning it, "Whore reporting for duty." Another former cast member, Cecily Strong, also appeared to troll Gillis with a social media post showcasing new footwear.
"Today" co-host Jenna Bush Hager criticized Gillis' remarks on air, stating she would be "disgusted" if her husband spoke about someone in such a manner. "Schitt's Creek" star Dan Levy expressed being "speechless" over the monologue, while comedian Kathy Griffin commented on Gillis' right to make the remarks, while also defending the public's right to criticize him.
Gillis, who joined "SNL" in 2019, was previously fired from the show within five days of his hiring due to controversial remarks made in past podcast appearances.