Saturday Night Live’s legendary creator, Lorne Michaels, has opened up about the complexities of fame, the possibility of retirement, and the impact of budget cuts on the iconic show. As the show approaches its 50th season, Michaels remains a pivotal figure in the world of comedy, having launched the careers of numerous stars like Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Will Ferrell.
In a recent interview with the New York Times, Michaels discussed the challenges that come with being part of SNL. “If you were the funniest kid in your class, and then you’re working professionally with others who are just as funny, it can be both upsetting and stimulating,” he said. The exposure and fame that come with being on the show can be overwhelming for some. “No one can handle the fame. Generally, we’re more tolerant of it, but people are going to turn into assholes. It’s just part of the process because no one grew up that way,” Michaels added.
Despite the pressures, Michaels has always been a guiding force for his cast members. He advises those looking to leave the show for other opportunities to “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.”
As for his own future, Michaels has consistently shut down rumors of his retirement. “I’m going to do it as long as I feel I can do it. But I rely on other people and always have,” he stated. Michaels briefly left the show in 1980 but returned in 1985 after his replacements received poor reviews. His commitment to SNL remains unwavering as he prepares for the milestone 50th season.
Budget cuts have also been a significant issue for the show. “I think everybody had to go through belt-tightening,” Michaels said. The financial constraints have affected various aspects of production, including the axing of the Late Night with Seth Meyers band. “The only person who really has faith in the network model right now is Ted Sarandos, who seems to be building one,” Michaels noted.
Despite these challenges, Michaels continues to find and nurture new talent. “Mostly, you’re looking for whatever that spark is that says it’s original. It’s just an instinct that the way their mind works, something more interesting is going to happen,” he explained. The process of finding and developing new stars is ongoing, even as the show faces financial and logistical hurdles.
Reflecting on the show’s history, Michaels shared insights into the pressures of producing a live show. “The idea that Friday night we still don’t have an opening is no longer terrifying. It’s not common, but it’s not unusual,” he said. The unpredictability of live television is something he has learned to manage over the years.
One of the more controversial moments in recent SNL history was the hiring and subsequent firing of Shane Gillis. Michaels addressed the backlash, saying, “I think ideas flourish in a moment. They used to be called manias.” Gillis was initially hired in 2019 but was dropped after footage of him using racist slurs resurfaced. Despite the controversy, Gillis returned to host an episode, a move that sparked mixed reactions from the cast and audience.
As SNL gears up for its 50th season, the cast has yet to be announced. The 49th season featured hosts like Jake Gyllenhaal and Kristen Wiig, and the show continues to be a platform for both established and emerging talent. Michaels’ influence remains strong, and his ability to adapt to changing times has kept SNL relevant for nearly five decades.
Paul McCartney and Chris Rock, both friends of Michaels, have praised his leadership. McCartney described him as a “benevolent dictator” who manages to pull together a lot of craziness and make it work. Rock, who was on the show from 1990 to 1993, credited Michaels with his financial stability, saying, “I’ve never been broke since.”
As the show moves forward, Michaels’ vision and guidance will continue to shape its future. His ability to navigate the complexities of fame, financial constraints, and the ever-changing landscape of television ensures that Saturday Night Live remains a cornerstone of American comedy.
