Michael Che's "SNL" Bit Comparing Kanye West To Caitlyn Jenner Has People Up In Arms

BYErika Marie3.3K Views
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Michael Che
Cancel Culture is coming for Che.

With all of the Jesus Is King shenanigans that have taken place over the past few weeks, Kanye West is an unavoidable topic. From his delayed releases, art installations, Sunday Services, political comments, and declarations of being the greatest artist of all time, Kanye knows how to keep his name at the forefront of conversations. 

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As controversial of a figure as he is, Kanye is still a talent that the hip hop community can't avoid. His antics, however, make him an easy target for social commentators, especially those of the comedic variety. During this past weekend's Saturday Night Live Weekend Update segment, Michael Che made Kanye his punchline. However, the joke made Che the focus of social media as they accused the comedian of transphobia.

"At first I thought Kanye was losing his mind, and now I feel like he’s fine, he’s just turning into an old white lady,” Che stated, noting that Kanye recently revealed that he would only perform old songs from his catalog with family-friendly lyrics. "I mean, he used to be one of the coolest black dudes on Earth. Now he’s showing up to events in sweatpants and orthopedic sneakers, listening to Kenny G and trying to get black people to like Trump. It’s like, how long before this guy changes his name to Kathy?"

Then, Che unsurprisingly mentioned Kanye's relative, Caitlyn Jenner. "Now, you might think that I’m crazy, but about five years ago, there was a fella named Bruce Jenner, and he moved to Calabasas...” Che joked before ending his bit. Fans took to social media to air their displeasure with Che for referencing "a fella named Bruce." There were media reports that circulated stating that it was insensitive for Che to call Caitlyn a "fella," while other commentators noted that people were misinterpreting what Che said. Some thought the SNL cast member's use of Jenner's transition as a joke was transphobic, while others overall thought people were being too sensitive. Check out the clip below along with a few mixed reactions from the public.

About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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