Lorne Michaels, the iconic creator of Saturday Night Live, has once again addressed those persistent retirement rumors. As the legendary NBC sketch comedy show gears up for its monumental 50th season, Michaels assured fans in a new interview with the New York Times that his retirement isn’t imminent. I’m going to do it as long as I feel I can do it. But I rely on other people and always have.
Challenges of Being an SNL Cast Member
Michaels took a moment to reflect on the unique challenges faced by SNL cast members. Speaking about the comedic environment he’s nurtured over the years, he mentioned, If you were the funniest kid in the class, or your school, and then you’re working professionally and everyone else in the room is that. It can be upsetting or can be really stimulating.
The competitive atmosphere can be both invigorating and challenging for new performers.
The Fame Factor
No one can handle the fame,
Michaels added. Generally, we’re more tolerant of it, but you know people are going to turn into assholes. Because it’s just part of that process, because no one grew up that way.
The sudden leap to stardom has its downsides, and not everyone manages it gracefully.
Success Path for SNL Alumni
Michaels has been instrumental in launching the careers of numerous comedy superstars such as Eddie Murphy, Will Ferrell, and Tina Fey. His advice for those leaving the show? Build a transition that’s solid. Build a bridge to the next thing, and when it’s solid enough, walk across. But don’t leave on the first thing, because you don’t know what’s really out there.
SNL Season 50: What’s Next?
The cast for Season 50 remains unannounced. However, Season 49 saw familiar faces like Jake Gyllenhaal and Kristen Wiig hosting memorable episodes.
The Shane Gillis Controversy
The controversy surrounding Shane Gillis was also addressed briefly by Michaels. Gillis was hired in 2019 but dropped swiftly after footage of him using offensive slurs on a podcast resurfaced. Addressing the backlash, Michaels remarked, I think ideas flourish in a moment. They used to be called manias.
Cast Perspectives
SNL cast members Bowen Yang and Kenan Thompson recently discussed Gillis’ brief stint on the show with Variety. Reflecting on his co-star’s journey, Yang shared, I think he and I have done enough things in our careers now to really not [have] that be the definitive beginning or the thing that casts a pall over everything else that we do going forward.
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