"Weekend Update" anchor Michael Che addressed the backlash against comedian Shane Gillis' monologue during an appearance on the "Today" show on Thursday. Gillis, who hosted "Saturday Night Live" for the third time, made comments about women's workout clothing that sparked controversy. In his monologue, Gillis remarked, "I haven’t been to the gym in so long. I didn’t know women just dress like w----- now?" He described the clothing in detail, stating, "Have you seen it? I’ve seen it. You’ve seen the shorts? They’re those neon, like, artificial bait-colored [shorts], and the wrinkles go around the cheeks and all combine at the butthole. And don’t look! You’re not allowed to look."
When asked about the backlash, Che laughed at his own Instagram post that mocked the situation, stating, "Gotta do more press this week to promote the special. Wonder what every f------ questions gonna be about. Thanks a lot shane." He expressed that he did not think much of the pushback Gillis received, saying, "That’s comedy. It’s like, you think it’s funny, and then some people don’t." Che admitted he had not seen Gillis' monologue when it first aired, as he was busy with cue cards, and when he did see it, he "didn’t think about it, honestly."
Che also noted that his own experiences with controversial jokes have made him hesitant to criticize other comedians. He stated, "That’s why I can’t criticize anybody for swinging and missing, because I’ve definitely swung and missed, too."
Fox News Digital reached out to NBC for comment, and Gillis' representative declined to comment. Comedian Tim Young supported Che's perspective, stating that the backlash reflects attention-seeking behavior rather than genuine offense. He added that jokes are not meant for everyone and emphasized that both Gillis and Che are successful comedians.
SOURCE: Fox News — Latest PUBLISHED: 2026-10-15 21:27:51