Lorne Michaels Defends Shane Gillis' Return to SNL Amid Past Controversy

Michaels criticizes the backlash to Gillis' 2019 firing, calling it an overreaction influenced by cancel culture.

Lorne Michaels reflects on the controversy surrounding Shane Gillis' 2019 firing from SNL due to resurfaced racist and homophobic jokes.
Michaels describes the backlash as an overreaction, noting the swift and intense response from various groups, including a potential boycott by 200 Asian companies.
Despite the controversy, Michaels stands by his decision to bring Gillis back as a host in 2024, praising his talent and potential contribution to the show.
Michaels suggests that the period of intense cancel culture is winding down, though he believes those who do truly awful things will still face consequences.
Shane Gillis has continued to find success post-SNL, with a Netflix special and a TV series, despite ongoing criticism from advocacy groups.