Saturday Night Live (SNL), a television institution since 1975, has been both a launching pad for comedic talent and a magnet for controversy. The show has introduced a host of stars to the world, including Jimmy Fallon, Tina Fey, and Bill Murray, shaping the landscape of American comedy. As a “frat house” for comedians, SNL has also faced criticism for its lack of diversity and treatment of female comedians. Lorne Michaels, the show’s creator and executive producer, wields significant influence over its direction, often ushering his protégés into the upper echelons of the entertainment industry.
The writer's inaugural year at SNL coincided with Jimmy Fallon's first season as a cast member. This was a period marked by grueling work schedules, with average workweeks stretching to 90 hours. Adam McKay, a former writer, recalled that during his first two years, the relentless pace left little room for rest, with creatives often working through the night.
“During my first two years there, the average work week was around 90 hours,” – Adam McKay
“There were times we basically didn’t leave the office except to grab five hours of sleep. On Tuesday, you write all day and all night. I once wrote for 20 straight hours and got dizzy because I had forgotten to eat.” – Adam McKay
Lorne Michaels is credited with shaping SNL's cultural impact over his long tenure. According to Tina Fey, Michaels not only influences the show's tone and politics but also imparts life lessons to his employees. His guidance extends beyond comedy, with advice on vacationing in luxurious locales and mentoring influential figures like Jeff Bezos and David Zaslav.
“He tells his employees to make sure that they take vacations in suitably luxurious, expensive locales. He gives advice to people like Jeff Bezos and David Zaslav,” – Tina Fey
“I think there is no other figure like him who has had the job that he has had for as long as he has had it, and that has changed culture so radically.” – Tina Fey
Despite its achievements, SNL has faced scrutiny for its internal culture and content. Janeane Garofalo described her time on the show as "the most miserable experience of my life." The program has been criticized for perpetuating stereotypes and making jokes at the expense of marginalized groups. Jane Curtin expressed shock at the pervasive sexism she encountered at SNL compared to her previous experiences.
“the most miserable experience of my life” – Janeane Garofalo
“It was stunning because in the improv group I came from in Cambridge, [Massachusetts], there was no sexism.” – Jane Curtin
“We were all equals; we all respected each other. We talked about the importance of the Equal Rights Amendment [ERA].” – Jane Curtin
“But by the time I got to Saturday Night Live the ERA didn’t pass, which was stunning to me. And I go into this world where they hadn’t even discussed an ERA. It wasn’t a part of their life; it didn’t affect them.” – Jane Curtin
The show's handling of sensitive topics has drawn ire, notably its treatment of Sinead O'Connor following her controversial performance. Critics argue that SNL has a history of punching down at marginalized groups, including Asian stereotypes and racist jokes.
Nevertheless, SNL remains a platform where comedians can experiment and push comedic boundaries. It is celebrated for its ability to reinvent television, hosting high-profile guests from politics and entertainment. New York magazine captured the essence of SNL's enduring presence in American culture.
“feels unbound by time, as if it had always existed and always will” – New York magazine