Celebrated Saturday Night Live writer Jim Downey is featured in an upcoming documentary set to premiere on Peacock on October 17.
Entitled “Downey Wrote That,” this hour-long documentary will explore the sketches, comedic style, and lasting impact of the longest-serving writer in the history of “SNL.” Downey, who became part of the show in its second season in 1976, contributed over 30 seasons during four different tenures at Studio 8H. Renowned as the “behind-the-scenes comedic mastermind” of “SNL,” he penned some of the show’s most memorable sketches, catchphrases, and sharp political commentary. He boasts five Emmy Awards for his contributions to the show, including work featured in the 50th anniversary special slated for 2025.
Featuring discussions with “SNL” alumni and various comedy icons, “Downey Wrote That” includes insights from notable figures in alphabetical order: Fred Armisen, Andy Breckman, Dana Carvey, Greg Daniels, Will Forte, Al Franken, Bill Hader, Darrell Hammond, David Letterman, Jon Lovitz, Seth Meyers, Lorne Michaels, Garrett Morris, John Mulaney, Laraine Newman, Conan O’Brien, Bob Odenkirk, Lawrence O’Donnell, Maya Rudolph, Molly Shannon, Martin Short, Robert Smigel, David Spade, Emily Spivey, Ben Stiller, and Kenan Thompson.
Downey is credited with creating the classic “Chippendales” skit, much of Dana Carvey’s portrayal of George W. Bush, and Norm Macdonald’s controversial O.J. Simpson material during “Weekend Update.” Beyond “SNL,” Downey is also remembered for his acting roles, including the principal in “Billy Madison” and, more recently, as Sandy Irvine, the “Christmas Adventurer” in “One Battle After Another.”
The documentary is produced by Broadway Video in partnership with Universal Television Alternative Studio, part of Universal Studio Group. Executive producers include Michaels, along with Susan Morrison, Andy Breckman, Erin David, Eddie Michaels, Oz Rodriguez, and Brent Hodge. Co-executive producers are Derik Murray and Brian Gersh.
“SNL” made its return to NBC on Saturday, October 4, hosted by Bad Bunny with musical guest Doja Cat. The upcoming week will feature Amy Poehler with music by Role Model, and then on October 18, Sabrina Carpenter will host and perform.
