Shane Gillis faces criticism for SNL joke about women at the gym, labelled misogynistic and out of touch
Shane Gillis has faced significant backlash for a joke made during his SNL monologue, which was criticised for being ‘galactically out of touch’. The joke, which referenced women dressing like whores at the gym, sparked widespread anger and discussions about misogyny in comedy.
Kate Engler from the Meet the Press Masterclass argued that Gillis’s comments were a ‘cheap, misogynist shot’ that failed to engage with the zeitgeist or provide any meaningful story arc.
Engler emphasised the importance of comedians understanding their audience and the societal context in which they perform.
There was no curiosity, there was no exploration of the zeitgeist, there was no story arc.
Kate Engler, Meet the Press Masterclass
Comedians calling out comedians
Engler noted that the backlash was not just from audiences but also from fellow comedians. She highlighted how Pete Hellier, a well-known Australian comedian, had recently called on male comedians to improve their material and avoid cheap shots. Engler explained, “There was no curiosity, there was no exploration of the zeitgeist, there was no story arc.”
The incident has also reignited conversations about victim blaming and societal attitudes towards women.
Engler pointed out that women are often unfairly judged based on their attire, especially in cases of assault, contrasting this with other crimes where victims are not blamed.
Engler also discussed the role of SNL’s writers and producers in allowing the joke to air, questioning the gender balance in the decision-making process. She stated, “I would love to know the balance of men and women in that room.”
Looking forward, Engler stressed the need for comedians to be clever and insightful with their humour, rather than relying on outdated stereotypes. “That whole reading of the room and being aware of what the zeitgeist is, that’s one of the joys when you see a great comedian,” she said.
The controversy serves as a reminder of the evolving standards in comedy and the importance of comedians adapting to societal changes.
