Michael Che’s Controversial Netflix Special Remarks

Michael Che, co-anchor of ‘Saturday Night Live’s’ Weekend Update, performed on May 2, 2026. During his routine at the First Avenue music venue in Minneapolis, Che joked about Charlie Kirk’s killing.

Che began the show by expressing his emotions, likening his feelings to Erika Kirk on stage—without intending any disrespect to the Kirks. He admitted to not knowing Charlie Kirk before his death, humorously confusing him with ‘the dude from Star Trek.’

‘I was like, ‘What? They shot Captain Kirk?’

Kirk, a founder of Turning Point USA, was speaking when he was shot and killed. Che described watching a graphic video of the assassination, wishing he hadn’t seen it. He shared his observation that in the U.S., straight White Christian conservative men feel silenced.

Che humorously recalled discussing this with someone he referred to derogatively. He admitted to using offensive language to describe individuals he described as regressive. He defended the term’s use by linking it humorously to the growing influence of such individuals globally.

Che argued that if the R-word were still popular, Trump might never have become president. He criticized the political discourse surrounding Trump, labeling Trump’s appeal as akin to ‘r—– whispering.’

He mocked Trump’s ability to connect with supporters through simplistic messaging and recognizable MAGA hats, highlighting how people gravitate towards such symbols.

Additionally, Che commented humorously on America’s approach to presidential politics, suggesting a need for long-term candidate planning. He compared it to sports rankings, implying the lack of seriousness in political selections.

In his personal material, Che touched on topics like aging, drinking, and relationships. He concluded by humorously portraying God as an absent parent, a lighthearted reflection on spirituality.

Fox News Digital’s Max Bacall covers media, culture, and comedy, noting that Michael Che did not respond to immediate requests for comment.