Saturday Night Live has been a cultural phenomenon for nearly 50 years, with its ability to constantly evolve and diversify its talent base being a key factor in its enduring success. Kenan Thompson, a stalwart on the show, highlighted the importance of this diversity, citing the iconic ‘Black Jeopardy’ sketch as an example of how the show has broadened its reach by including more diverse cast members.
Over his 21-year tenure on SNL, Thompson has witnessed significant changes in the show, from format adjustments like the shift from live broadcasts to shared videos on social media, to a notable increase in diversity among the cast. He emphasized that having a more diverse cast allows the show to explore new comedic territory and appeal to a wider audience. The inclusion of Black, Asian, Hispanic, and LGBTQ+ members has expanded the show’s comedic possibilities, as seen in sketches like ‘Black Jeopardy’, which resonate with a more diverse viewer base.
Thompson also touched on the healing power of humor, mentioning his portrayals of controversial figures like OJ Simpson and Bill Cosby. He acknowledged that while the humor may have been dark, finding the lighter side of challenging situations can help in the healing process. Humor, according to Thompson, has the ability to cut through the noise of everyday life and provide a much-needed escape for audiences.
When asked about the formula for creating viral cultural moments, Thompson admitted that there is no surefire method. He pointed out that despite the show’s focus on current events and pop culture figures, sometimes the most unexpected sketches, like those featuring decades-old characters like Beavis and Butthead, end up resonating the most with viewers. Thompson suggested that maintaining a consistent level of quality and creativity opens the door for these cultural moments to organically emerge.
Saturday Night Live’s enduring success can be attributed to its willingness to adapt, evolve, and diversify its talent base. By expanding its reach through diversity, exploring new comedic avenues, and embracing the healing power of humor, SNL continues to captivate audiences and remain a cultural touchstone. The show’s ability to create unexpected viral moments underscores the importance of staying true to its comedic roots while also remaining open to innovation and change.
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