Dave Chappelle, one of comedy’s most influential and provocative voices,

has shared his frustration with the controversy that often surrounds his appearances on *Saturday Night Live* (*SNL*).

Known for his sharp wit and fearless approach to addressing polarizing topics, Chappelle has frequently used his platform to tackle issues ranging from politics to social justice.

However, the weight of public scrutiny appears to have taken its toll on the comedian, who now expresses a desire to step back from the storm of controversy.

Chappelle has hosted *SNL* several times, each appearance garnering widespread attention and sparking debates.

His 2016 monologue, delivered just days after Donald Trump’s presidential election win, was praised for its poignant mix of humor and hope.

In 2020, he returned during another pivotal moment in American history, addressing the nation’s unrest amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement.

While these moments solidified his reputation as a masterful social commentator, they also drew criticism from some audiences who felt his jokes crossed the line.

His most recent appearance, however, seemed to push him to a point of exhaustion with the never-ending backlash.

In a candid conversation during a recent interview, Chappelle admitted that he’s grown weary of the controversies that follow his *SNL* gigs. “Every time I step on that stage, it feels like I’m stepping into a minefield,” he said.

“I’m a comedian, not a politician. But people expect me to address the biggest issues of the day, and sometimes that’s a heavy burden to carry.”

Chappelle’s comedy has always been rooted in pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. However, as audiences have become more polarized, his humor has often been interpreted as divisive rather than unifying.

His remarks on topics like race, gender identity, and politics have sparked heated debates, with some accusing him of being insensitive while others praise his boldness.

Chappelle acknowledged the delicate balance he strives to maintain when performing on platforms like *SNL*. “Comedy is supposed to make people laugh, but it’s also supposed to make them think,” he said.

“The problem is, not everyone laughs at the same things, and not everyone thinks the same way.”

He also expressed frustration with how his words are often taken out of context. “I can tell a joke that’s meant to spark a conversation, but by the time it’s dissected online, it becomes something entirely different,” he explained. “That’s exhausting.”

Despite the challenges, Chappelle remains committed to his craft. He views comedy as an essential tool for fostering dialogue and breaking down barriers, even if it sometimes puts him in the hot seat.

As for whether he’ll continue to appear on *SNL*, Chappelle seemed uncertain. “I love the show, and I love what it represents,” he said. “But I’m not sure if I can keep doing it if it means constantly being at the center of controversy. I just want to make people laugh without it turning into a headline.”

Fans of Chappelle have expressed mixed reactions to his comments. While many support his decision to prioritize his well-being, others hope he’ll continue using his platform to address pressing issues with his signature style.

Regardless of what the future holds, Chappelle’s impact on comedy is undeniable. His willingness to tackle uncomfortable truths has earned him a place among the greats, even as it’s drawn criticism. For Chappelle, the goal has always been to challenge audiences to see the world from a different perspective.

“I’ve always believed that comedy is a mirror,” he said. “It reflects the world back to us, sometimes in ways that are hard to look at. But that’s the beauty of it—it forces us to confront the things we might otherwise ignore.”

Dave Chappelle’s relationship with *SNL* is a microcosm of his broader career—a mix of brilliance, controversy, and unwavering honesty. While he may be tired of the backlash, his dedication to his craft and his belief in the power of comedy remain strong.

Whether or not he returns to the iconic stage, Chappelle’s legacy as one of the most thought-provoking comedians of his generation is secure.