Dan Levy has expressed his disapproval of Shane Gillis’s recent monologue on Saturday Night Live, specifically taking issue with the derogatory language used towards women. In an Instagram video, Levy criticized Gillis for referring to women wearing short shorts to the gym as “whores,” labeling such remarks as unacceptable.
Gillis had commented on the attire of women in neon short-shorts at the gym, likening their clothing choice to the artificial bait of a fishing lure. He further remarked that men should not look at these women in such attire.
Responding to Gillis’s comments, Levy condemned the derogatory nature of the joke, emphasizing that labeling women in a derogatory manner is uncalled for. He stressed that men who engage in such behavior perpetuate misogyny and contribute to an environment where women are at risk of sexual assault.
Levy, known for his role in Schitt’s Creek and his past hosting of SNL, highlighted the importance of standing up against the objectification of women in the media. He asserted that allowing such behavior to go unchallenged leads to the mistreatment of women and called for greater support and respect for women.
The backlash towards Gillis’s remarks coincides with ongoing discussions surrounding the alleged gang rape involving the “Cornell 7” at an Ivy League frat house in 2024. The case has sparked debates on consent, the prevailing culture, and the handling of such incidents by institutions.
Criticism of Gillis’s joke extended to SNL fans who questioned the approval of such content, especially given the context of the Cornell case. While some defended Gillis’s comedic style, others condemned the misogynistic nature of his jokes and the impact they may have on perpetuating rape culture.
Shane Gillis, no stranger to controversy, faced backlash during his time on SNL for previous offensive remarks. Despite hosting the show multiple times, his past comments and jokes, including those targeting marginalized groups, have drawn criticism and raised concerns about his comedic content.
In addition to the controversy surrounding his recent remarks, Gillis also faced criticism for using offensive language in a sketch during the live broadcast, prompting an apology from the comedian for his inappropriate language during the show.