The SNL send-off

I guess after almost 50 years I was a little surprised when SNL made such a big thing about the departures of Kate McKinnon, Pete Davidson, Aidy Bryant, and Kyle Mooney.   Not that they aren’t beloved and have been a mainstay for several years, but look at all the other major talent who left Saturday Night Live.  Eddie Murphy didn’t get to do a heartfelt goodbye.  Nor did John Belushi, Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, Dana Carvey, Bill Hader, Kristen Wiig, Darrell Hammond, Bill Murray, Phil Hartman, Amy Poehler, Chris Rock, Adam Sandler — you get the idea.  (Please don’t write in saying “You missed ________”  I’m making a point.)

Perhaps because of social media, but SNL now gets attention it never did before.  The show biz industry trade website, Deadline Hollywood, does an article on practically every sketch along with a headline which is the same size as Harvey Weinstein caught hoarding Milk Duds in his jail cell.   Hollywood Reporter and Variety never used to report the opening SNL skit as if it were actual news.  

When a beloved radio personality or sportscaster has his last broadcast it’s a big deal.  For 67 years Dodger fans have had Vin Scully.  His retirement has left a huge void that is not even close to being filled.  Many times when longtime radio personalities or local newscasters move on it’s to other cities.  So it’s the last you see or hear of them for awhile (or ever).  But former SNL cast members just go on to do movies, host late night talk shows, star in series, and all of the above.  Plus, they come back and guest on SNL.  So this is like the Cher Farewell Tour where they’re already selling tickets for the next Cher Farewell Tour.  

This isn’t a rant.  I will miss them all and wish them all the best.  I have no doubt that they’ll do just fine.  And personally, I think it’s good for the show to cycle in new people and new characters.  If I’m being honest, I absolutely adored Kate McKinnon a few years ago and now am tired of the act.  But I just find it odd that these departures have gotten such attention.   When I finally quit this blog I imagine Deadline Hollywood won’t mention it because a cavity search on Weinstein uncovered a box of Jujubees. 


from By Ken Levine