Veteran comedian Chevy Chase is reopening one of the most controversial chapters of his career. In a new interview tied to CNN’s documentary I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not, the 82-year-old actor reflected on his abrupt departure from NBC’s cult sitcom Community, calling it “too great a misunderstanding” and claiming he never believed the show was “that good.” Chase portrayed Pierce Hawthorne, a wealthy and abrasive member of the Greendale study group, during the show’s early seasons. Community aired from 2009 to 2014 and became known for its meta humor and fiercely loyal fan base.
Revisiting a Controversial Exit
The CNN documentary revisits reports that Chase was fired during Season 4 following an alleged on-set meltdown. According to the film, the situation escalated after news leaked that Chase had allegedly used a racial slur while questioning dialogue written for his character. Chase has long maintained that his intentions were misunderstood. Asked by The New York Times if he wanted to clarify his exit, the actor pushed back against the narrative that painted him as malicious.
“It was too great a misunderstanding of what I was saying and not saying,” Chase said. He added that some involved “didn’t get me” or misunderstood his comedic background, insisting he is not racist.
‘I Didn’t Think the Show Was That Good’
Chase also delivered blunt criticism of Community itself. “It wasn’t a bad experience,” he said. “I just didn’t think it was that good, the show.” When the interviewer noted that he initially seemed to enjoy the series, Chase dismissed the comment. He also joked — controversially — about his daughter’s praise for the show’s writing, underscoring the unfiltered tone that has long defined his public persona. Despite the friction, Chase said he felt the role ended well and did not express regret about leaving the series.
Accounts From Behind the Scenes
The documentary includes recollections from director Jay Chandrasekhar, who worked on Community. Chandrasekhar described a tense moment following press coverage of the alleged slur, claiming Chase returned to set furious and distraught, declaring his career “ruined.” After that incident, Chase reportedly never returned to film additional episodes. Neither Community creator Dan Harmon nor Chase’s former co-stars participated in the documentary.
A Complicated Legacy
Beyond Community, I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not explores Chase’s personal history, including childhood abuse and struggles with substance addiction. Chase told People that opening up about his past was difficult but necessary.
While he insists negative press does not define him, Chase also admitted he prefers to be liked and can be deeply hurt by public criticism. The documentary premieres January 1 on CNN, offering viewers a closer look at a comedy legend whose career has been shaped as much by controversy as by cultural impact.
