Lorne Michaels, the legendary creator of “Saturday Night Live,” is the focus of Susan Morrison’s upcoming biography titled “Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live.” An extensive excerpt from the book was recently published by The New Yorker, shedding light on Michaels’ complex relationship with the ever-evolving cast members of the iconic sketch comedy show.
According to the excerpt, Alec Baldwin, a frequent host of “SNL” and known for his portrayal of Donald Trump, described Michaels as “Darwinian” in his approach to managing the cast. Baldwin mentioned that Michaels tends to let the cast members navigate their relationships on their own, sometimes resulting in a competitive environment within the show. However, Morrison notes that Michaels is adaptable in his management style, recognizing that different personalities require different approaches.
The biography reveals instances where Michaels displayed a tough love attitude towards his cast members. While some received blunt directives like “Don’t mess it up,” others were met with a warmer and more reassuring demeanor. For instance, actress Molly Shannon recalled how Michaels would comfort her with just a look when she was feeling nervous before going on stage.
Despite his occasional tough love approach, Michaels was not always forthcoming with praise for his cast members. Kevin Nealon, a former cast member, recounted a moment when he urged Michaels to offer support to a struggling colleague but was met with a response indicating that praise was scarce in Michaels’ repertoire.
The biography also delves into the personal struggles faced by some cast members during their time on “SNL.” Bill Hader, known for his comedic talents, opened up about his battle with anxiety during his tenure on the show. Similarly, Andy Samberg revealed that the demanding schedule and high-pressure environment of “SNL” took a toll on his mental and physical well-being, leading to his decision to leave the show after seven years.
For those interested in learning more about Lorne Michaels and the inner workings of “Saturday Night Live,” the full excerpt from Morrison’s biography can be found on The New Yorker’s website. The book is currently available for pre-order and is set to be released on February 18th. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of one of television’s most influential figures.
