A former cast member reignites debate over SNL’s most divisive star
Terry Sweeney Reopens Old SNL Wounds
December 31, 2025: Former Saturday Night Live cast member Terry Sweeney is once again speaking candidly about his experience working alongside Chevy Chase, describing the comedian in blunt terms that have reignited long-running controversy.
Sweeney did not mince words, labeling Chase as “rotten” and suggesting that the actor’s reputation behind the scenes has been well known for decades.
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A Reputation That Never Faded
Chevy Chase’s behavior on the SNL set has been the subject of rumors, firsthand accounts, and public criticism for years. Sweeney’s comments add to a growing archive of voices who claim Chase’s talent often came paired with hostility and ego.
For many fans, these revelations challenge the nostalgic image of early SNL and force a reassessment of its most celebrated stars.
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Power Dynamics Inside Early SNL
Sweeney’s remarks highlight how power operated within SNL during its formative years. As one of the show’s first openly gay cast members, he has previously spoken about navigating an environment that wasn’t always welcoming or safe.
His latest comments suggest that Chase’s behavior was emblematic of a broader culture that protected stars while sidelining others.
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Why the Criticism Still Matters Today
The renewed discussion arrives at a time when entertainment audiences are reexamining workplace behavior across Hollywood. Stories once dismissed as “set drama” are now viewed through a lens of accountability and inclusion.
Sweeney’s words resonate because they echo a pattern, not an isolated incident.
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Fans Divided Over Legacy
While some viewers defend Chase as a product of his era, others argue that comedic legacy shouldn’t excuse harmful behavior. Online discussion has been sharply divided, reflecting how cultural tolerance has shifted.
The question remains whether comedy history should be preserved untouched—or openly confronted.
Final Thoughts
Terry Sweeney’s blunt assessment of Chevy Chase isn’t just personal—it’s part of a larger reckoning with comedy’s past. As former cast members continue to speak out, the mythology surrounding SNL’s early years grows more complicated.
Laughter may define the show’s legacy, but accountability is increasingly part of the conversation.
