Kelce’s Instagram Like of Gillis’ SNL Monologue Draws Fire Amid Backlash

Key points

• Travis Kelce liked the NBC Instagram video of Shane Gillis’s six-minute SNL monologue, which included disparaging remarks about female gym-goers.
• A source close to Kelce told Page Six that he is a 'massive fan' of SNL and was 'supporting a friend,' as the two have a history, including Gillis appearing at Kelce’s Tight End University summit in June.
• Dan Levy called Gillis a 'misogynist' on Instagram, stating that women wearing short shorts does not make them whores, and that the men calling them so are the misogynists.
• Ego Nwodim mocked the monologue on Instagram Stories by posting a gym photo with the caption 'whore reporting for duty' and later referenced 'heauxing' after her workout.
• Bobby Bones praised the monologue on his podcast, calling it 'pretty funny' and respecting Gillis for taking chances on live television.
• Gillis also apologized for accidentally dropping an F-bomb during a Dr. Seuss-inspired sketch, though the primary controversy centers on his comments about women’s gym attire.

Background

Gillis was previously cast on SNL in 2019 but was removed within a week after racist and homophobic slurs from past podcast clips resurfaced. He has since hosted the show three times, including in 2024 and 2025. Kelce made his SNL hosting debut in March 2023, and both he and Taylor Swift made cameos during the Season 49 premiere in October 2023.

How outlets are covering it

Outlets highlight a polarized celebrity response. Page Six and NBC News emphasize the backlash from Dan Levy and Ego Nwodim, framing the remarks as misogynistic. Deadline focuses on the accidental profanity slip in a sketch, noting Gillis’s on-air apology. The New York Times notes the monologue was primarily self-deprecating but included the controversial gym bit. Bobby Bones, cited by Page Six, stands out as a defender, calling the bit bold and funny. Kelce’s support is framed by Page Six as friendship, while critics view the like as endorsement of the offensive content.

Why it matters

The incident highlights ongoing tensions over comedy boundaries, gender dynamics, and celebrity influence on social media. Kelce’s like amplified the controversy, drawing attention to Gillis’s remarks and the divided public response. It also underscores the scrutiny faced by comedians on live national television, particularly regarding gender-based humor.

What to watch

Gillis has not publicly addressed the gym attire remarks, only apologizing for the profanity slip. The backlash may continue as public figures and social media users debate the appropriateness of the monologue. NBC and SNL may face pressure to address the incident, though no official statement has been reported. Kelce’s rep has not yet commented publicly on the like.