A Divisive Opening Monologue
A joke about women’s workout clothing has put Shane Gillis back at the center of controversy. His opening monologue on Saturday Night Live prompted widespread criticism online. It also drew a noticeably muted response from the live studio audience. The bit occurred during Gillis’s third turn as host of the NBC sketch show. Riffing on his own weight loss efforts, the comedian targeted the brightly colored shorts women wear. He described them vividly before using a crude, derogatory word. He suggested women now dress inappropriately to exercise in public spaces. He framed the routine around the idea that society expects men not to look.
Critics Highlight Unfortunate Timing
The punchline landed with very little laughter inside the room. Much of the subsequent backlash focused on exactly when the joke aired. It arrived amid national attention on a high-profile case at Cornell University. A former student, identified as Jane Doe, accused seven fraternity members of sexual assault. Her account prompted many women to share their own experiences with campus assault online. They describe facing weak institutional and police responses using the hashtag #iamjanedoe. Some viewers used the outcry over Gillis’s monologue to voice support for her cause. Actor Dan Levy, co-creator of Schitt’s Creek, emerged as a prominent critic.
Actors Push Back Online
Levy argued the problem lies with men who label women inappropriately. He stated he felt stunned that such a line made it onto live national television. He urged men to speak up more regarding casual misogyny. He warned that objectifying women in media encourages men to treat them as objects offline. "They are not objects. They are superior human beings to men," Levy stated. Writer Jessica Valenti suggested Gillis was likely aware of the ongoing national discussion. She characterized the joke as a clear example of rape culture. Comedian Sophia Benoit argued the premise itself was simply tired and recycled.
A History Of Provocation
This episode represents the latest controversy for Gillis, whose provocative style targets marginalized groups. SNL hired him in 2019 but dismissed him days later over racist podcast remarks. He apologized then but made clear he intended to pursue taboo material regardless. Despite the initial split, the show brought him back to host repeatedly. Understand the social issues driving modern entertainment and pop culture. Find more insightful cultural commentary at The WAU today.
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