As we mark an exciting milestone of 50 seasons of Saturday Night Live (SNL), it’s time to take a backstage tour of this iconic show. Here, we uncover some of the most memorable behind-the-scenes tales that prove some of the wildest moments took place offstage.
Unforgettable Feud: Bill Murray and Chevy Chase
It’s hard to separate showbiz from scandal and SNL is no exception. Back in the day, Bill Murray landed a right hook on Chevy Chase. The incident was a result of Chase’s much-disputed return as the host after abandoning the show mid-season. Luckily, they let bygones be bygones and even shared the screen in the 1980’s hit movie Caddyshack.
Jeff Daniels and the Unrelenting Mask
You’ve seen the perfect prosthetics on SNL, right? That’s due to the work of the makeup department which crafts face masks for hosts if required. During Jeff Daniels’ visit, however, his face mask wouldn’t budge! With the help of a plastic surgeon and some strategic cuts, Daniels was ready to perform, albeit with painted-on eyebrows.
Chris Farley’s Shenanigans
SNL was also a space for pranksters like the late Chris Farley. He had a strange hobby of joining co-star Mike Myers in the shower, much to Myers’ bemusement. However, surprisingly, Myers would always forget Farley’s peculiar habit, making for a surprise every week!
The Richard Pryor Saga
Lorne Michaels, SNL’s creator, had to fight corporate battles as well. One such battle was to get Richard Pryor to host the show, despite network executives fearing Pryor’s unpredictable nature. A five-second delay was introduced to beep out potential profanities, marking SNL’s first non-live airing.
Rescue Mission: Charles Rocket
Charles Rocket, best known for accidentally using profanity on-air, led to a monumental stir-up. SNL producer Jean Doumanian, tirelessly tried to save his job, unfortunately to no avail. In the end, due to a series of deficiencies within the show, both were let go by NBC.
Chevy Chase’s ‘Lost’ Cocaine
Another eyebrow-raising event involved former SNL member John Belushi, who allegedly stole Chevy Chase’s stash of cocaine. Chase only realized what had happened when he spotted his empty vial at Belushi’s home.
Andrew Dice Clay and Nora Dunn’s Protest
Sometimes SNL became a platform for protest. When comedian Andrew Dice Clay hosted the show, Nora Dunn decided to sit out the episode, as did musical guest Sinead O’Connor, causing quite a stir in the press.
Sinead O’Connor’s Controversial Appearance
When Sinead O’Connor did appear two years later, she caused a massive controversy. After singing a song, she tore a picture of Pope John Paul II on live television. This act led to global outrage, with many condemning her actions.
Comedic Rivalry: Chris Kattan vs Norm Macdonald
SNL also had its fair share of rivalries like the ’90s feud between Chris Kattan and Norm Macdonald. Their humorous but frosty relationship climaxed with Kattan stealing Macdonald’s jacket and Macdonald consistently mocking Kattan’s characters.
The Unforeseen Departure of Shane Gillis
Lastly, the curious case of Shane Gillis, a comedian who was hired and fired before he could step onto the stage. Controversial podcast clips led to a quick reversal of the decision to hire him, painting a clear picture on the importance of digital footprint.
From feuds to protestors to shock exits, these off-stage escapades add to the rich tapestry of Saturday Night live’s 50-year run. These anecdotes remind us that behind each laugh, each gag, and each impersonation, there’s often an intriguing story waiting to be told. As we gear up for more SNL action, let us relish these tales that made us gasp, giggle, and occasionally grimace, both on and offstage.
