Dan Levy is not holding back after Shane Gillis sparked backlash over his comments about women's gym outfits on Saturday Night Live (SNL). The Schitt's Creek star has called on men to challenge misogyny, arguing that insulting women for what they wear is part of a much bigger problem.
In a video shared on Instagram, Levy questioned how remarks targeting women's bodies could be made on live national television without more people speaking out. His message was blunt, emotional and directed at men who stay silent when women are disrespected, insisting that tackling misogyny should not be left to women alone.
Dan Levy Delivers a Blunt Message
'Women wearing short shorts at the gym does not make them whores. It makes the men calling them whores misogynists. There's a difference there,' Levy said in his Instagram video.
He also pointed out the double standard surrounding gym clothing, saying that he had seen more men's nipples at the gym than women showing off their bodies. Levy said he was speechless that such comments could be made on live national television before turning his attention to the consequences of staying silent.
'And to be perfectly honest, more men need to be standing up in opposition to it because it's complacency that has created the environment with which women are sexually assaulted and it's a conversation as opposed to a crime,' he said.
'Men need to be defending women more. This is not a women's issue. This is an everybody issue,' Levy continued, arguing that the way women are portrayed in the media can shape how others treat them. He added that women are not objects and ended his passionate message with an expletive, acknowledging that his comments might get him into trouble online.
Shane Gillis' Controversial 'SNL' Monologue
Shane Gillis' remarks came during his third stint as host of SNL on 10 October, when he opened his monologue by discussing his experience at the gym. Gillis claimed he had not been to the gym in a long time before saying he was surprised that 'women just dress like whores now'. He went on to joke about women wearing short, brightly coloured workout shorts and complained about being told not to look at them.
His comments drew criticism from viewers who objected to the derogatory language and questioned why women should be judged for their choice of exercise clothing. It fuelled an online debate about sexism, gym attire and provocative comedy. The controversy has also raised questions about where comedians should draw the line when jokes target women.
Gillis has faced controversy over his comedy before, having been dropped from the SNL cast in 2019 after podcast clips containing racist and homophobic remarks resurfaced. He later returned to host the programme in 2024 and 2025 before his October 2026 appearance.
What Does Dan Levy Stand For?
Levy is a Canadian actor, writer, director and producer best known for co-creating and starring in Schitt's Creek alongside his father, Eugene. The hit comedy swept the major comedy categories at the 2020 Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Writing and Outstanding Supporting Actor for Levy.
The show also earned praise for its inclusive portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, presenting queer relationships without making homophobia the central conflict. Levy's work has helped bring more LGBTQ+ representation to mainstream television while allowing its characters to experience love and everyday life beyond stereotypes.
His latest comments reflect a similar concern about how people are portrayed and treated, this time focusing on women and misogyny. Instead of asking women to shoulder the responsibility of challenging sexist attitudes, Levy urged men to speak up when they see or hear them.
