In 2022, Saturday Night Live (SNL) found itself at the center of controversy when it reportedly cut a transphobic joke from comedian Dave Chappelle’s monologue. 

According to a report from Vulture, the joke, which was allegedly aimed at a nonbinary SNL writer, was removed after concerns were raised by cast and crew members.

A Joke That Never Aired

Chappelle, a frequent source of controversy for his comments on gender identity and the LGBTQ+ community, was set to host SNL in November 2022. 

During the dress rehearsal, he reportedly made a joke mocking a nonbinary writer who had opted out of working on his episode. 

The writer’s absence had been approved by SNL creator and executive producer Lorne Michaels.

The joke, according to Vulture, referenced media reports that suggested multiple SNL writers were boycotting Chappelle’s episode. Chappelle allegedly quipped, “The papers got it wrong. Only one person has a problem, but the paper got confused because that person is a they.”

This remark reportedly sparked backlash from some members of the SNL cast and writing staff, who felt that it crossed a line. Michaels and other producers were said to have received angry messages expressing frustration over the situation. In response, Michaels reportedly asked Chappelle to cut the joke, fearing it could harm relationships within the SNL team. Chappelle ultimately complied, and the joke was removed from the final broadcast.

Ongoing Controversy Surrounding Chappelle’s Comedy

Even without the omitted joke, Chappelle’s SNL monologue in 2022 faced criticism for being anti-Semitic, adding to the growing controversy surrounding his comedy. The comedian has made headlines in recent years for jokes about transgender people, particularly in his Netflix specials, which have drawn significant backlash from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.

Actress Trace Lysette, a transgender performer, responded to Chappelle’s comments in a viral TikTok video in early 2024. In the clip, she sarcastically speculated about his apparent obsession with the transgender community, saying, “I don’t know what doll hurt Dave Chappelle. I really don’t. But it’s giving disgruntled client. It’s giving angry trick.”

Lysette continued her critique, questioning why Chappelle had dedicated multiple comedy specials to making jokes about transgender people. “Who goes on to make three specials, three comedy specials, about the dolls? Because you can’t take. Get him some help.”

Chappelle’s Return to SNL

Despite the controversy, SNL has continued to work with Chappelle. He made another appearance on the show in January 2025 and is set to be featured in the show’s upcoming 50th-anniversary special.

His return has been met with mixed reactions. Some SNL fans appreciate his unfiltered comedic style, while others remain critical of the platform being given to someone who has faced repeated accusations of promoting transphobia.

As SNL moves forward, the incident highlights the ongoing debate over free speech in comedy and the responsibilities of networks to balance humor with inclusivity. Whether Chappelle’s past remarks will impact his relationship with SNL in the long run remains to be seen, but for now, he continues to be a fixture on the show despite the controversies surrounding him.

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