ASaturday Night Liveicon has opened up on why they missed theSNL50th Anniversary Special. The special was an extended-length episode that brought together some of the biggest names inSNL, past and present. The special was watched by close to 15 million viewers and was critically acclaimed.
Saturday Night Liveis one of the most popular and iconic sketch shows in television history, and some of thebestSNLcast memberswho began their careers on the show went on to become some of the most prominent comedians on television. But one particular icon was notable by theirabsence from the 50th Anniversary Special.
PerEW, comedy legend Dan Aykroyd revealed the reason for his absence from the special, stating that it was his choice to sit out of IT.Aykroyd, who broke out as anSNLcast member in the 1970s, revealed that he was such a fan of the show, he wanted to watch it from beginning to end and knew he wouldn’t be able to if he appeared in it.
Aykroyd continues by revealing how much he loves the new cast. However, if appeared, he would have been in the dressing room working and wouldn’t have had the chance to enjoy it as much. Check out his comments below:
“I wanted to be at home and I wanted to watch the show beginning to end. I knew if i was there, I’d be in a dressing room, I’d be working. I wanted to see it live. I’m a fan of the show today, and I watch it all the time. I love these new players; I think they’re just great. I just wanted to see and live nostalgically with my family in my own home, eating my own popcorn.”
What This Means For Aykroyd’s SNL Legacy
The Legend Remains As Iconic As Ever
The comedy legend seems pretty happy with his place in the world of comedy, and the pantheon ofSNLicons that preferred a low-key approach to the special. The fact that he chose to spend the show at home watching it with his family speaks to Aykroyd’s character, but also shows how much the show resonates with him as a fan.
There is no question thatSaturday Night Livehas evolved over the years, and the show is very different now to what it used to be when Aykroyd was a cast member. There have been manyfunnySNLsketches over the past five years, and many of these have resonated with legendary comedians such as Aykroyd.
Our Take On Aykroyd’s Decision To Skip The SNL Special
His Choice Makes Sense For A Star In His Latter Career
Admittedly, it’s a shame that Aykroyd wasn’t at the event to celebrate such a milestone for the TV institution. Even if he didn’t perform, it would have been great to see him reconnect with some of his fellow SNL greats.
It suggests that Aykroyd has a more low-key approach to life now, and prefers simply being an observer to brilliant new comedy rather than being the one making the comedy. Whether or not Aykroyd will appear onSaturday Night Liveagain is unclear, but if he doesn’t, he seems like he’s pretty okay with that.
Saturday Night Live
Cast
Saturday Night Live is a live television sketch comedy and variety show created by Lorne Michaels, premiering in 1975. It features comedy sketches parodying contemporary culture and politics, performed by a rotating cast. Each episode is hosted by a celebrity guest and includes musical performances.
