New reports reveal the surprising history of four major comedians who auditioned for Saturday Night Live (SNL) but faced rejection, highlighting the intense competition in the comedy world. As the iconic sketch show celebrates over 50 years on air, it’s clear that not every aspiring star found success in their audition.
UPDATE: These revelations serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of showbiz, where even the most talented can miss their shot at fame.
Here’s a closer look at the comedians whose SNL auditions didn’t go as planned, and what they learned from the experience.
Kevin Hart auditioned in 2001 with high hopes but left the room with disappointment. Known for his energetic performances, Hart struggled with the impression portion of the audition. He attempted to impersonate former NBA player Avery Johnson, as well as actors Robert De Niro and Denzel Washington. Unfortunately, his choices fell flat, as the producers were unfamiliar with Johnson and Hart couldn’t recall memorable De Niro lines. His Washington impression ended in embarrassment, leading him to exit the audition prematurely.
Moving on, Bill Maher came close to landing the coveted “Weekend Update” position, competing against Al Franken before Norm Macdonald swooped in at the last minute. Former SNL writer Jim Downey recalls that Maher seemed like a shoo-in due to having the same agent as Lorne Michaels. However, the final decision favored Macdonald, which would eventually lead to the firing of both Maher and Macdonald years later.
In a twist of fate, Kevin James, known for his role in “King of Queens,” auditioned for SNL in the mid-1990s. He later described the experience as the “worst audition” he had ever attended, receiving no laughs during his stand-up routine. Despite this setback, James reflected that not landing the SNL gig was ultimately a blessing, as it allowed him to pursue other opportunities, landing his breakout role on “The King of Queens.”
Perhaps the most shocking rejection comes from Jim Carrey, who auditioned for SNL multiple times but was turned down each time. The reasons behind these rejections remain unclear, although Lorne Michaels has distanced himself from any blame, stating Carrey never auditioned directly for him. Nevertheless, Carrey made a lasting impression on future SNL stars Dana Carvey and Phil Hartman, who both witnessed one of his auditions and were left awestruck when he performed a handstand using just his pinky.
These stories highlight the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry and how even iconic figures faced rejections that shaped their careers. As the landscape of comedy continues to evolve, these experiences serve as a testament to resilience and the unyielding spirit of comedians who, despite setbacks, continue to entertain audiences worldwide.
NEXT: Fans are left wondering how many more hidden stories of comedy legends might emerge, as the comedy scene continues to grow. Stay tuned for ongoing updates on the latest developments in the world of entertainment.
