Shane Gillis Addresses SNL Monologue Backlash on Joe Rogan Experience

Shane Gillis promised Saturday Night Live producers his opening set would bring zero controversy before taking the stage for his October 10 return, according to Consequence.

More than a month after his latest appearance sparked intense public debate, Gillis finally addressed the backlash during an appearance on the November 13 episode of The Joe Rogan Experience.

The comedian pushed back against assumptions that network executives had vetted his jokes beforehand. “Not to defend SNL, they don’t approve it,” Gillis told Rogan.

Gillis admitted he went into the hosting gig expecting smooth sailing rather than a wave of criticism. He recalled telling himself he would deliver a modest performance while avoiding any risky material.

“The whole time, I was like, “Fellas, I’m giving you a solid C minus of a monologue, but I promise there’s no controversy.” “I’m calling myself fat for fucking 10 minutes.”,” Gillis said.

Despite his assurances, a specific portion of the monologue drew sharp reactions. Gillis joked during the broadcast that “women just dress like whores now” when visiting the gym.

Dan Levy quickly called the remarks misogynistic. Meanwhile, SNL cast member Kenan Thompson noted he wanted to have a real chat with Gillis before any future hosting duties.

Gillis avoided seeing the immediate fallout by deleting his social media accounts. He reflected on the choice in light of his turbulent past with the sketch comedy institution.

In 2019, SNL fired Gillis just days after announcing him as a new cast member. That decision followed the resurfacing of old recordings featuring jokes about race and sexuality that drew widespread criticism as racist and homophobic.

“This time, I just deleted everything immediately,” Gillis told Rogan, adding that he chose to stay in the dark about the online discourse.