Shane Gillis Reacts to 'SNL' Firing: 'I Was Always a Mad TV Guy Anyway'

Shane Gillis has released a statement after it was announced that he has been fired from Saturday Night Live ahead of his debut on the show.

The comedian’s offer to appear on the show was retracted after a video of him using a racial slur resurfaced after his casting was announced.

“It feels ridiculous for comedians to be making serious public statements but here we are,” Shane said. “I’m a comedian who was funny enough to get SNL. That can’t be taken away.”

“Of course I wanted an opportunity to prove myself at SNL, but I understand it would be too much of a distraction. I respect the decision they made. I’m honestly grateful for the opportunity. I was always a Mad TV guy anyway,” Shane said.

READ MORE: See what NBC said in a statement about the firing