Terry Sweeney, Saturday Night Live’s first openly gay cast member, has responded to controversial remarks by Chevy Chase in a new documentary set to premiere on January 1. In the film, titled “I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not,” director Marina Zenovich revisits an alleged incident from the 1980s where Chase reportedly suggested that Sweeney, who was part of SNL during the 1985-86 season, appear in a sketch that would mock the AIDS epidemic.
Zenovich reminded Chase of the moment, stating, “You said something to Sweeney like, ‘Oh, you’re the gay guy. Why don’t we ask if you have AIDS? And every week, we weigh you.’” In response, Chase dismissed Sweeney’s account, claiming, “Terry Sweeney was not telling the truth… That isn’t me. That’s not who I am.”
Sweeney reacted to Chase’s denial via instant message to The Hollywood Reporter, expressing contempt for Chase’s comments and stating, “Don’t you think he is saying this and making himself look more like the ass he is?” He further criticized the moment as reflective of Chase’s character, saying, “It all reflects rightly horribly on him!”
In the documentary, Chase also references abuse he faced as a child, attempting to explain his difficult demeanor. Sweeney’s response was scathing, quipping, “Boohoo… poor screwed up kid… so THAT’S why he’s so rotten!!!!!!!”
Further commentary in the documentary came from SNL creator Lorne Michaels, who addressed Chase’s sometimes inappropriate humor, expressing that “Chevy was just being Chevy” and suggesting that the culture of comedy allowed for such remarks.
The documentary also delves into other controversies from Chase’s career, such as a 2012 incident on the set of the show “Community,” where Chase used a racial slur and subsequently faced repercussions for his behavior on set. Director Jay Chandrasekhar recounted the events, highlighting the problematic nature of the incident along with the tension it created.
As these revelations come to light, they prompt reflection not just on the behaviors and attitudes of individuals like Chase, but also on the broader cultural landscape of comedy during that era. With a spotlight on past transgressions, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward greater sensitivity and understanding in the entertainment industry.