Lorne Michaels, the legendary creator and executive producer of “Saturday Night Live” (SNL), recently shed light on why some comedians find it challenging to thrive on the iconic show. In a candid interview with the New York Times, Michaels discussed various aspects of the show, including the pressures of fame, the dynamics of hiring and firing, and the unique environment that SNL fosters.
Michaels acknowledged that the intense spotlight that comes with being on SNL can be overwhelming for many performers. “No one can handle the fame,” he remarked. “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 SNL boss also touched on the difficulties new stars face when they join the show. “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,” he explained. “It can be upsetting or can be really stimulating.”
Michaels emphasized the importance of finding talent with a unique spark. “Mostly, you’re looking for whatever that spark is that says it’s original,” he said. “It’s just an instinct that the way their mind works, something more interesting is going to happen.”
The week leading up to a live show is another source of stress for the cast and crew. “The idea that Friday night we still don’t have an opening is no longer terrifying,” Michaels noted. “It’s not common, but it’s not unusual.”
The hiring and firing process at SNL has also been a topic of controversy. Michaels addressed the situation involving Shane Gillis, who was fired shortly after being hired due to past offensive remarks. “I think ideas flourish in a moment,” he said. “They used to be called manias.”
For those looking to leave the show, Michaels offered some sage advice. “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.”
Cost-cutting measures have also impacted the show, including the axing of the Late Night with Seth Meyers band. “I think everybody had to go through belt tightening,” Michaels said. “I think the only person who really has faith in the network model right now is Ted Sarandos, who seems to be building one.”
As for his own future, Michaels remains committed to SNL. “I’m going to do it as long as I feel I can do it,” he stated. “But I rely on other people and always have.”
The interview also featured comments from stars and friends, including Paul McCartney and Chris Rock. McCartney praised Michaels’ calm demeanor, calling him a “benevolent dictator.” Rock, who was on the show from 1990 to 1993, credited Michaels with his financial stability. “I met Lorne in ’91 or ’90,” Rock said. “I’ve never been broke since.”
John Mulaney, another SNL alum, recently shared a poignant story about Michaels during an interview with David Letterman. Mulaney, who has been open about his struggles with addiction, recalled a phone call from Michaels while he was in rehab. Michaels invoked the tragic death of John Belushi, an original SNL cast member who died of a drug overdose in 1982. “He goes, ‘I knew John Belushi for seven years. I’ve been talking about him for 48 years, because that’s the shrapnel that happens when someone goes down like that,'” Mulaney recounted.
Michaels’ words had a profound impact on Mulaney. “He didn’t argue or anything, he just went, ‘John. We both know how this movie ends.’ And that was it,” Mulaney said. “I just kind of nodded and went back to my room and stayed.”
Mulaney’s experience highlights the personal challenges that many SNL cast members face, and the role Michaels plays in guiding them through difficult times. Despite the pressures and pitfalls, Michaels’ leadership and vision have kept SNL at the forefront of comedy for decades.
In summary, Lorne Michaels’ insights into the struggles comedians face on SNL offer a glimpse into the high-stakes world of live television comedy. From the pressures of fame to the challenges of finding and nurturing talent, Michaels’ experience and wisdom continue to shape the show’s enduring success.
