Chevy Chase’s exit from the acclaimed series Community in 2012 has come back into the spotlight with the release of the new CNN documentary, I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not. In a conversation with The New York Times coinciding with the film’s debut on January 1, Chase reflected on his departure, which occurred after 83 episodes, underscoring the turmoil surrounding his firing by show creator Dan Harmon. This decision followed allegations that Chase used a racial slur on set.
When discussing the contentious end to his role as the curmudgeonly Pierce Hawthorne, Chase expressed that it stemmed from a significant misunderstanding. He stated, “I thought that there was at least one person — and another who, for some ungodly reason, didn’t get me, didn’t know who I was, or didn’t realize for one second I’m not racist.” He noted that the younger cast members may not have grasped his intentions or the nuances of his comedic background.
The documentary sheds light on the challenges Chase faced while portraying a character that increasingly engaged in bigoted humor, including a controversial scene featuring a hand puppet adorned in blackface. Director Jay Chandrasekhar mentioned co-star Yvette Nicole Brown in context to these events, implying a broader dialogue about race and comedy during that time.
In response, Brown recently addressed the situation through an Instagram post, hinting at her own perspective on the events and the public narratives surrounding them. She stated, “These are things I’ve never spoken of publicly and perhaps never will,” emphasizing the importance of authenticity over speculation. Brown added, “And when someone chooses to sully or defile themselves, I let them — BIG age or not,” insisting that individuals should take responsibility for their actions without shifting blame.
Further reflecting on Chase’s behavior during the filming of Community, Donald Glover, who was also featured in an earlier 2018 profile by The New Yorker, alluded to moments when Chase made racially charged jokes and attempted to disrupt Glover’s on-screen presence. Glover commented on Chase’s struggle with his artistic relevance, suggesting, “I can’t help him if he’s thrashing in the water. But I know there’s a human in there somewhere—he’s almost too human.”
This renewed discussion around Chevy Chase and Community sheds light on the complexities of race, comedy, and the impact of personal and professional relationships in the entertainment industry. It also serves as a reminder of the evolving conversations surrounding these themes as society continues to navigate the intersection of art and social responsibility.