Controversy has been no stranger to Shane Gillis’ SNL moments, although the reasons have been different each time. When Gillis joined the cast in September 2019, the announcement barely had time to sink in before old clips resurfaced showing him using anti-Asian slurs and other offensive language. Five days later, SNL boss Lorne Michaels fired the comedian before he ever made it to the stage. Surprisingly, the show welcomed him back in February 2024, giving him a second shot as a host. Now, his third time hosting SNL this month has kicked up another controversy, drawing backlash from viewers and notable figures, including Dan Levy.

Dan Levy took to social media to call out Shane Gillis over his tasteless on-air remarks about women’s gym wear during the show.

Dan Levy has called out Shane Gillis over his controversial remarks about women’s gym wear on Saturday Night Live. While hosting the show on October 10, 2026, Gillis made crude comments about women’s athletic shorts, prompting the actor and comedian to respond on Instagram. Levy argued that women who wear workout shorts are not “w****s” and condemned the remark as misogynistic. He also highlighted how objectifying jokes can reinforce a culture that minimizes sexual assault, stressing the need for more men to speak up.

"I'm speechless that something like that can exist on live national television," Gillis said in a video posted to Instagram. Levy was not alone in calling out Gillis, as several fellow industry figures threw their support behind the actor and comedian. Gillis, who calls himself a comedian who pushes boundaries, meanwhile, faced a double dose of criticism. 

“It Was a Huge Altercation”- Bill Murray and Chevy Chase’s 1978 'SNL' Fight Backstage Had Director Shocked

Between the backlash over his controversial remarks and the scathing reviews of his SNL monologue, Gillis was getting slammed from every direction.

Dan Levy’s comments received plenty of love from fellow female celebrities under his post. Elizabeth Banks reacted with a simple “Nailed it.” Hannah Einbinder also showed her support, writing, “Thank you dan.” Barrett Wilbert Weed also chimed in with an “I love you, Dan.” Gillis’ latest SNL hosting stint failed to impress critics. Variety called his monologue “meandering” and noted that he has yet to nail the format.

The Guardian described his material as a watered-down version of his usual act, while The A.V. Club said he muddled through another subpar performance. Vulture described the comedian as middle-of-the-road despite his outsized success.

SNL Season 52 Cast: New Additions, Exits, and Who Stayed? Meet the Faces Who Will Run 'Saturday Night Live'

What do you think about Dan Levy's response to Shane Gillis' monologue? Let us know in the comments!