Former “Saturday Night live” cast member pete Davidson recently revealed the surprisingly modest salary he earned during his eight seasons on the iconic sketch comedy show. In a video for New york Magazine, Davidson, along with other current and former “SNL” stars, shared their biggest indulgences after receiving their first paycheck from the NBC series.
“Do you guys know what they pay us?” Davidson quipped. “It’s like three grand an episode. I think I got dinner.”
Jason Sudeikis,who spent nine seasons as a cast member after initially joining as a writer,echoed Davidson’s sentiment. “I mean, you don’t make enough money to make big purchases, so I think New York rent was probably the biggest purchase I made after writing my first year on ‘SNL,'” he shared.
The video featured a star-studded lineup of “SNL” alumni, including James Austin johnson, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sarah Silverman, Sarah Sherman, Cheri Oteri, Seth Meyers, Bowen Yang, and Rachel Dratch, each recounting their own modest splurges.
Louis-Dreyfus admitted to buying a pair of $75 shoes, while Yang confessed to splurging on Gucci shoes from Saks Fifth Avenue. Several cast members, including Johnson, Meyers, and Oteri, opted for more practical purchases like furniture.
“A couch. I have gotten it reupholstered three or four times,” Oteri revealed.
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The video offers a humorous and relatable glimpse into the early days of some of comedy’s biggest names, highlighting the humble beginnings even for those who would go on to achieve stardom.
Get ready for a night of laughter as “Saturday Night Live” marks a monumental milestone: its 50th anniversary. The iconic sketch comedy show will celebrate with a live primetime special airing on NBC on February 16th at 11:30 p.m. ET. For those who prefer to stream, the special will also be available on Peacock.
The show’s enduring legacy is a testament to its ability to adapt and evolve with the times, consistently delivering sharp wit and satirical commentary on current events. Over the decades, “SNL” has launched the careers of countless comedy legends and provided a platform for some of the most memorable moments in television history.
“I remember a designer coming over in tears, and he goes, ‘OK, those arms are too high.We have to get … We’re going to get rid of that couch.’ I said, ‘Oh no. No, you’re not. Not today, Satan.No, the couch is staying. You’re going,’” recalled Lorne Michaels, the show’s creator and longtime producer, in a recent interview.
Michaels’ anecdote offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes intensity and unwavering commitment that have made “SNL” a cultural phenomenon.
To commemorate this special occasion, NBC has released a sneak peek video on Instagram, offering a tantalizing taste of what viewers can expect from the anniversary celebration.
Mark your calendars and prepare for a night of laughter as “Saturday Night Live” takes a trip down memory lane, celebrating five decades of comedy gold.
## SNL Stars Spill the Tea: Surprisingly Low Salaries Despite Iconic Status
**World today News Exclusive: An Interview with Entertainment Expert, Samantha Leigh**
**World today News**: Samantha, Pete Davidson recently revealed that “Saturday Night Live” cast members only earn around $3,000 per episode. That seems surprisingly low given the show’s massive cultural impact and the talent involved.
**Samantha Leigh**: Absolutely, it is surprising considering the show’s legendary status and the fame it bestows on its cast.Its vital to remember though, “SNL” is a demanding gig with a hectic schedule. They rehearse constantly, write sketches, and perform live every week. This is why contracts often prioritize exposure and career momentum over massive salaries, especially for newer cast members.
**World Today News:** So, is $3,000 per episode typical for SNL cast members, or does it vary?
**Samantha Leigh**: It likely varies depending on seniority and contract negotiations. Established stars like Kenan Thompson, who has a remarkable 20 seasons under his belt, might negotiate much higher salaries. Younger cast members like Davidson starting out likely begin with a lower base pay.
**World Today News**: Jason Sudeikis mentioned New York rent being his biggest splurge after his first year on the show. Does this indicate the cast struggles financially,despite working on such a prestigious show?
**Samantha Leigh**: While $3,000 is a decent wage for many,in a city like New York it can be challenging to manage,especially considering the demanding nature of the job.It’s not necessarily a struggle, but a reflection of the realities of living in a high-cost city.
**World Today News**: Many other “SNL” alumni like Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Sarah Silverman have gone on to have incredibly successful careers. Does “SNL” provide a financial springboard even with modest initial salaries?
**Samantha Leigh**: Absolutely! “SNL” is a phenomenal launchpad. The exposure, the training, and the connections forged on the show are invaluable. Many alumni leverage their “SNL” experience to land leading roles in film and television, ultimately leading to significant financial success.
**World Today News**: So, while the initial salary might be modest, the long-term return on investment for “SNL” cast members can be immense?
**Samantha Leigh**: Indeed.”SNL” offers a unique blend of artistic fulfillment and career opportunities that frequently enough outweigh the initial financial constraints. It’s a testament to the show’s enduring power and the talent it nurtures.
**World Today News**: Thank you for your insights, Samantha!
**Samantha Leigh**: My pleasure. Always happy to discuss the captivating world of entertainment!
