'SNL' banned Dave Chappelle from discussing 'transgender people and Gaza'
What's the story
Comedian Dave Chappelle returned to Saturday Night Live for its 50th-anniversary special.
Recently, he revealed that SNL producers had asked him to avoid two particular topics during his opening monologue last month. The revelation came during a stand-up performance in San Francisco, where he said the topics were "transgender people and Gaza."
However, Chappelle subtly referenced Palestine in his 15-minute monologue recorded on January 18, despite the directive.
Subtle reference
Chappelle's subtle reference to Palestine in 'SNL' monologue
Although he was clearly instructed not to mention Gaza, Chappelle managed to slip in a reference to Palestine during his monologue.
"Do not forget your humanity, and please have empathy for displaced people whether they're in the Palisades or Palestine," he said.
SFGate's senior culture editor, Dan Gentile, reported, "In his San Francisco set, he didn't go on to elaborate much more on Gaza except to close with 'Give the Jews a break, free Palestine' before literally dropping the mic."
Upcoming special
'SNL50: The Anniversary Special' featured Chappelle
Chappelle appeared in SNL50: The Anniversary Special, a three-hour live telecast celebrating the sketch comedy show's 50th year on air.
The show was first aired in October 1975.
The special also saw past cast members like Adam Sandler, Amy Poehler, Andy Samberg, Chevy Chase, Chris Rock, Eddie Murphy, Will Ferrell, and Jane Curtin among others.
This comes after the recent SNL50: The Homecoming Concert hosted by Jimmy Fallon at Radio City Music Hall.