Shane Gillis’ ‘SNL’ monologue falls flat as jokes about Hitler and women draw few laughs
Several jokes, including remarks about women’s gym clothing, prompted groans rather than laughter from the audience
Shane Gillis received a mixed response to his latest Saturday Night Live monologue, as the comedian returned to host the NBC sketch show for the third time since his controversial departure in 2019.
Gillis, 38, opened his monologue in a black T-shirt and trousers, discussing his weight, experiences at the gym and discomfort while hiking.
Several jokes, including remarks about women’s gym clothing, prompted groans rather than laughter from the studio audience.
Gillis also joked about his receding hairline and compared his hairstyle to that of Adolf Hitler, delivering the punchline: “You’re either gay or you’re Hitler, and isn’t that where we’re at as a country?” The joke received limited laughter before the monologue ended.
Gillis has demonstrated his comedic abilities through stand-up specials and other hosting appearances, although his SNL monologues have proved more challenging.
His relationship with the programme began in September 2019, when he was announced as a new cast member alongside Chloe Fineman and Bowen Yang.
Five days later, NBC dismissed him after resurfaced podcast clips showed him mocking Asians and using anti-gay slurs.
Gillis subsequently built a career outside the show through stand-up comedy, podcasting and acting.
He created and starred in the Netflix series Tires and secured a role in the upcoming biopic Madden.
Despite the initial controversy, SNL creator Lorne Michaels later welcomed Gillis back as a host.
His first hosting appearance in 2024 also attracted criticism for its monologue, although sketches such as “CouplaBeers” received a more positive response.
His latest appearance has again highlighted the mixed reception to his comedy on the long-running programme.
