Lorne Michaels says he’s contemplating exiting NBC’s Saturday night live.
The SNL co-creator told CBS Morning that he could leave the late-night sketch comedy organization after the show’s 50th anniversary season, which begins in 2024.
“You know, I think I’m committed to doing this program until its 50th anniversary, which is after three years,” he said. “I want to see that and I have a feeling that this is a really good time to leave. But… I wouldn’t want the show to go bad. I care too deeply about it. That’s my life’s work. So I will do everything I can to see it continue. ”
When asked if there could be a SNL without him, the executive producer replied, “Of course,” and then vaguely added, “I know where we’re headed, you know.” Pressured on who would replace him, he declined to speak. “I’m not going to go on about it – it’s three years away.”
While Michaels often turns down any suggestion of retirement, this isn’t the first time he’s at least hinted at the plan. In October 2020, Michaels told NBC’s Today, “My plan – and I’m not sure I’ll ever see it – but my plan is to be here for the 50th time… and by that point, I really deserve the hike.”
The 20-time Emmy Award winner had left the show before, leaving the show for five years in the early 1980s, but otherwise has been its manager since the series’ premiere in 1975.
On another topic, Michaels was asked if there are any comedies that really cross the line these days. “I think figuring out how to do it is up to the writer or the performer. “There are so many things that when you hear the idea, it sounds horrible. But if they can do it, I don’t think anything is off limits, that’s what I’m saying, if there’s enough talent to figure out how to get through it. “
Last weekend, SNL aired its latest episode with a reduced cast and no live audience due to the increasing omicron variation in New York City.
