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Saturday Night Live’s British edition didn’t hold back this weekend, taking a sharp, public jab at the U.S. version and its controversial recent host. The moment came during “Weekend Update UK,” where jokes and a televised photo aimed squarely at one sketch and the comedian behind it.
How SNL UK Called Out the U.S. Show
On the October 17 episode of Weekend Update UK, cohost Ania Magliano referenced the prior week’s U.S. broadcast. The segment mixed satire with direct mockery, prompting loud laughter from the studio audience.
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Magliano’s material focused on a few incidents from the U.S. show, including a gym-themed monologue and a live-on-air profanity slip.
What Ania Magliano Said on Stage
She started with a sight gag tied to a news-style bit about Oktoberfest cycling shorts. The joke pivoted quickly to television standards and what happens when live broadcasts go off script.
The profanity line that landed
Magliano then referenced a moment from SNL U.S. where a host used an expletive during a sketch. She recreated the line for effect and the uncensored joke received a strong reaction from the crowd.
Shane Gillis’ Monologue: What Sparked the Response
The U.S. episode at the center of the fuss featured comedian Shane Gillis as host. In his opening monologue, Gillis made remarks about women’s gym attire that many viewers found offensive.
- He joked about short, bright gym shorts and used language that described women’s outfits in sexual terms.
- Those lines quickly drew criticism on social platforms and from fellow performers.
Celebrity and Public Backlash
Several high-profile entertainers spoke out after Gillis’ monologue aired.
- Dan Levy called the comments misogynistic and urged more men to oppose objectifying language.
- Former SNL cast members also weighed in, describing the routine as problematic.
Public posts noted that short gym clothing does not equal invitation, and said media portrayals matter because they influence behavior.
Cross-Atlantic Crossover and Timing
The roast was notable because that same SNL UK episode featured the first official on-screen crossover with the U.S. cast. James Austin Johnson reprised his impression of former President Donald Trump alongside U.K. talent.
The juxtaposition — a friendly crossover and a pointed joke at another version of the show — made the moment feel deliberate. Producers on both sides have shared cast exchanges before, but Saturday’s split between collaboration and critique stood out.
How the Network and Fans Reacted Online
Social media divided quickly. Some viewers defended free speech and late-night comedy conventions. Others demanded accountability and more thoughtful content on national television.
- Messages of support for targeted groups emphasized respect and safety.
- Critics pointed to how jokes can normalize harmful attitudes.
- Fans debated whether live shows should face stricter broadcast standards.
Upcoming Episodes and Where to Watch
The U.S. edition of Saturday Night Live will return with a new episode on NBC on October 31. That show lists Inde Navarrette as host and features musical guest Gracie Abrams.
Meanwhile, SNL UK is scheduled to air on Sky One with Cynthia Erivo and Blossoms set to headline the October 24 episode.
