Months prior to its landmark 50th season, Saturday Night Live (SNL) had its illustrious history highlighted by former cast members and the star-studded lineup of hosts who graced the show. Among these, Chevy Chase, one of the comedy institution's original cast members, recently spoke candidly about his departure from the series. Reflecting on his time on the show, Chase recalled his surprise at his early exit during SNL's second season. "It wouldn’t have f------ taken much! All he had to do is tell me he loved me, basically. But his nature is to be above it in some fashion," he shared with The New Yorker, acknowledging the emotional distance he felt from show creator Lorne Michaels.
This candid reflection was ripe against the backdrop of Hollywood legends stepping up to host SNL during its 50th season. Starting off the milestone with her debut as host was Jean Smart, who expressed her excitement stating, "I can’t tell you how honored I am to be hosting the premiere episode of season 50." Smart, known for her performance on Hacks, reminisced about how she watched the show since its inception, highlighting the impact SNL had on aspiring comedians and actors.
Continuing the celebration, pop superstar Ariana Grande graced the stage, showcasing her comedic chops alongside musical talents. She made waves with the sketch “Domingo,” which went viral and not only featured her singing but also played on her interaction with the cast members, drawing laughter from the audience.
Throughout its storied history, SNL has seen its share of cast members face the challenging dynamics of live television, some of whom left the show abruptly. For example, Damon Wayans was let go after his ad-libbed performance during the “Mr. Monopoly” sketch. Wayans revealed, "the writers would shoot [his] ideas down" leading to his unexpected departure. Similarly, popular cast member Jenny Slate told Vogue years later, "I just didn't belong there. I didn't do a good job." Her comments came to dismiss rumors surrounding her firing due to profanity.
The mixture of talent and occasional turbulence has led to magical moments and laughter, exemplified by Molly Shannon’s iconic character, Mary Katherine Gallagher. Shannon, who joined SNL during the mid-90s, achieved unforgettable notoriety through sketches like “Mary Katherine Gallagher at TGI Fridays,” which humorously displayed her character's quirky personality traits.
Among others, notable exits include Jay Pharoah, who acknowledged the strange dynamics of cast interaction when he wasn’t recognized for his talents. "You go where you’re appreciated," he said, weighing the ups and downs of being part of the ensemble. The narratives of experience—both past and present—painted for audiences the unpredictability of SNL, where the blend of creativity and politics results not only in hilarity but also reveals personal stories of triumph and disappointment.
The tumultuous nature of the iconic show doesn't just resonate through the voices of its past cast. Current SNL actors, faced with their own series of challenges, maintain the torch of entertainment. Paul Mescal humorously honored his Gladiator II role during his hosting stint, leading the charge toward the grand finale. The blend of veteran entertainers and fresh, dynamic hosts has allowed SNL to stay relevant, bold, and uproarious across its fifty years on the air.
Even as the show navigates these challenges, each host’s approach adds their unique flavor, as seen when Chris Rock returned to share the stage with Adam Sandler. Rock’s sketch involving makeshift gallbladder surgery maintained the nostalgic spirit of SNL. His dynamic presence, alongside generations of hosts and cast members, demonstrates how SNL effortlessly marries the essence of sheer comedic brilliance with contemporary topics.
All the combined efforts of cast members, hosts, and creators like Lorne Michaels explain why SNL has lingered as one of meaningful rites of passage for entertainers and audiences alike. The stories from former cast members and current hosts invite audiences to become enthralled with the mix of laughter and heartfelt moments ceaselessly broadcast week after week.
Astutely, Lorne Michaels observed the inherent ebb and flow of SNL’s cast, affirming the natural turnover is part of the show’s charm. The legacy of performers leaving on their feet, letting their artistry speak loudly, continues to play out through SNL’s adventure to keep moving forward. The vast array of personalities, experiences, sketches, and memories stitched throughout the show’s narrative pay homage to its enduring influence and creativity which has persisted across half-a-century.