Since then, there has been an increase in public criticism over comedian Shane Gillis making controversial comments about women’s gym wear in a recent comedy monologue. Various entertainers and people associated with the show have issued statements, while the show’s management has said nothing.
The controversy has now triggered a broader debate concerning comedy, respect for women, and the duty of public figures when their jokes offend people.
What exactly did Shane Gillis say?
While giving his monologue, Gillis made a joke about going back to the gym and seeing women in tight workout shorts, referring to the clothes as ‘whores’ and comparing their bright colours to artificial fishing bait.
A great many people criticised the remarks, stating that they were disrespectful of women. There has also been discussion as to whether comedians should be criticised when they use offensive language in the course of their acts.
Gillis had not been facing public controversy for the first time. In 2019 he lost a comedy-show casting position which had been previously announced after old clips from a podcast came to light revealing him using offensive language about both Chinese people and gay people; at that time he referred to himself as a comedian who pushes boundaries.
Entertainers Respond to the Remarks
Jessie Leo, who is a graphic designer on the comedy show, criticised the joke on social media and asked if employees could feel at ease in raising work-related concerns after seeing such comments be approved for broadcast.
Cecily Strong, who was previously a member of the cast, also made a sarcastic comment regarding her own workout clothing. In her message she questioned the way Gillis had described women who wear revealing gym outfits.
Ego Nwodim, who was also a former member of the cast, posted something that ridiculed the controversial phrasing. Some women took part in the online debate by posting pictures of their gym clothing.
Dan Levy Calls for More Support for Women
Actor Dan Levy also took issue with the comments in a video that was shared online. He maintained that wearing short gym clothes does not make women immoral and stated that men who describe women in this way are displaying prejudice.
Levy also urged men to speak up against harmful attitudes towards women, believing that silence enables damaging behaviour to go on without being challenged.
Why the Controversy Matters
The discussion has also led to questions concerning the distinction between comedy and disrespect, critics arguing that jokes regarding women’s clothing can lead to the belief that women should be blamed for the way others treat them.
The discussion arises as a separate inquiry into an alleged sexual assault involving a former university student brings public attention to the issues of sexual violence and victim-blaming.
To many critics the matter involves more than just one comedian’s act; it brings up issues concerning respect, safety in the workplace, and the impact of entertainment on public opinions.
The debate is still going on with people talking about where comedy goes over the line and about what public figures should do when their words cause harm.
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