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- The film “Saturday Night,” directed by Jason Reitman, focuses on the behind-the-scenes dynamics leading up to the inaugural episode of “SNL.”
- Gabriel LaBelle plays iconic “SNL” creator Lorne Michaels and Cory Michael Smith stars as Chevy Chase.
- “Saturday Night” is set to be released in theaters on October 11.
This fall will see the debut of an intriguing film that delves into the origins of NBC’s esteemed sketch comedy show “Saturday Night Live.”
Titled “Saturday Night,” and helmed by director Jason Reitman, this feature showcases the tumultuous events occurring just 90 minutes prior to SNL’s first airing on October 11th in 1975. The impressive ensemble includes talents such as Nicholas Braun from Emmy award-winning series “Succession” and Finn Wolfhard known for his role in “Stranger Things.”
As we approach its release date on October 11th, let’s explore how the cast members reflect their real-life counterparts portrayed in “Saturday Night.”
Hopper Stone/Sony Pictures Entertainment; NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images
Karwai Tang/WireImage; Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images.
A member of SNL’s original writing team who was married to producer Lorne Michaels from 1971 until their divorce in 1980 is portrayed by comedian Rachel Sennott.
Sennott achieved prominence through her performance and co-writing efforts on notable films like “Bottoms”, which generated significant buzz within modern cinema circles.
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O’Brien as Aykroyd, left, next to the real Aykroyd on SNL in 1976.
Sony Pictures Entertainment; NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images
Dan Aykroyd, famously recognized for his work in the “Ghostbusters” series, was a staple of “SNL” from its inception in 1975 until 1979. His exceptional writing earned him an Emmy Award in 1977 for his contributions to the show.
Dylan O’Brien gained popularity through his portrayal of Stiles Stilinski on MTV’s beloved series “Teen Wolf.” He also featured as Thomas in the film adaptations of James Dashner’s dystopian narratives, known as “The Maze Runner.” In a milestone for his career, he appeared in Taylor Swift’s acclaimed short film “All Too Well” released back in 2021.
Fairn Steps into Newman’s Shoes
!Emily Fairn portraying Laraine Newman
Fairn as Newman alongside her real counterpart during an iconic SNL moment.
Sony Pictures Entertainment; NBCU Photo Bank
Joining “SNL” for five seasons from its launch until 1980 was Laraine Newman. This pioneering female comedian established herself within an era dominated by men.
In contrast, Emily Fairn is an emerging talent who recently starred in Starz’s miniseries “Mary & George” and showcased her skills on the British drama series “The Responder.”
Wood Embodies Belushi’s Spirit
!Matt Wood as John Belushi
Wood’s take on Belushi captured during a pivotal moment of comedy history.
Sony Pictures Entertainment; Michael Gold/Getty Images
John Belushi is perhaps best remembered for his iconic partnership with Dan Aykroyd as part of The Blues Brothers ensemble.
Actor Matt Wood has had appearances across various well-known shows such as “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and more recently starred in “Instinct,” showcasing versatility beyond comedy.
Morris: Celebrating Diversity with Garrett Morris
!Lamorne Morris playing Garrett Morris
Morris recreating moments from Garrett Morris’ tenure at SNL while standing alongside him.
Sony Pictures Entertainment; NBCU Photo Bank
Garrett Morris broke barriers by being the first African American cast member at “SNL,” contributing to its legacy from 1975 to 1980.
Today, Lamorne Morris has made waves chiefly known for playing Winston Bishop on Fox’s sitcom “New Girl”. He further expanded his acting repertoire with a role played out over season five of the critically acclaimed anthology series “Fargo.”
Matula Revives Jane Curtin’s Trailblazing Role
!Kim Matula channels Jane Curtin
Matula capturing Curtin’s essence during her groundbreaking time at SNL.
Sony Pictures Entertainment; NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images
As one of “SNL”‘s phenomenal pioneers between 1975-1980, Jane Curtin carved out her niche by becoming the very first woman anchor featured prominently on Weekend Update—an essential segment that reshaped comedic news delivery.
Kim Matula has navigated diverse roles across multiple platforms including shows like “The Bold and The Beautiful,” besides contributing episodes towards newer projects like “The Sex Lives of College Girls,” proving adaptability amid changing entertainment dynamics.
Finn Wolfhard Takes On Unique Role
!Finn Wolfhard during filming
Wolfhard immersing himself into character while working behind-the-scenes.
Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images
In a peek at ‘Saturday Night,’ Finn Wolfhard features prominently early on where he portrays an enthusiastic NBC page soliciting crowds outside Rockefeller Center urging them to be part of live studio audiences witnessing ‘Saturday Night Live’.
Wolfhard continues making strides since achieving fame through Netflix’s original sci-fi narrative Stranger Things which remains under production preparing for its fifth installment—a potent reminder that successful ventures often undergo extensive development before reaching fruition.
This reimagined article brings fresh perspectives and trends while paying homage to those who paved amusing avenues throughout television history.
Behind the Scenes of “Saturday Night” — A Glimpse into the Film’s Characters and Casting
The Comedy Legends of “SNL”
The timeless influence of comedy legends resonates throughout the history of Saturday Night Live (SNL), highlighting iconic figures such as Andy Kaufman and Jim Henson, alongside contemporary talents like Nicholas Braun. Kaufman once entertained audiences as a guest comedian on SNL, while Henson made his mark during the show’s inaugural season with his brilliant puppeteering skills.
Nicholas Braun, celebrated for his Emmy-winning role as Greg Hirsch in HBO’s dramatic series Succession, brings fresh energy to this rich comedic legacy.
Cooper Hoffman’s Role as Dick Ebersol
A key character in this cinematic exploration is Dick Ebersol, portrayed by Cooper Hoffman. Ebersol, a notable former NBC executive, played an instrumental role in shaping SNL under Lorne Michaels’ direction. His efforts were pivotal in cultivating late-night programming that captivated viewers.
Cooper Hoffman’s journey into acting began with Licorice Pizza in 2021, drawing from his lineage—he is the son of acclaimed actor Philip Seymour Hoffman.
Andrew Barth Feldman: The Voice Behind Neil Levy
In this film adaptation, Andrew Barth Feldman assumes the mantle of Neil Levy, a writer and talent coordinator associated with SNL. Known for his performance in Broadway’s Dear Evan Hansen, Feldman took a hiatus from Harvard University to embrace an opportunity alongside Jennifer Lawrence in the R-rated comedy No Hard Feelings, demonstrating how quickly talent can rise through unconventional paths.
Kaia Gerber as Jacqueline Carlin
Model Kaia Gerber portrays actress Jacqueline Carlin, who is remembered for her brief stints on Saturday Night Live during its early years and her marriage to Chevy Chase between 1976 and 1980. Gerber is not just following her mother’s footsteps; she has also established herself within films such as American Horror Story, Babylon, and Bottoms. Her recent appearances continue to highlight her versatility beyond modeling.
Willem Dafoe: A Nod to David Tebet
Acclaimed actor Willem Dafoe takes on the persona of David Tebet, an NBC executive who served as vice president during SNL’s groundbreaking launch. His impressive portfolio includes four Oscar nominations for performances in films like Spider-Man series, (The Florida Project), and (Poor Things)—a testament to both range and caliber he brings into any production.
J.K. Simmons Embodies Milton Berle
Oscar winner J.K. Simmons steps into Milton Berle’s shoes for this project—a figure well-known for hosting variety shows like (Texaco Star Theater) but notoriously challenging during his own appearance on SNL back in 1979. Simmons’ illustrious career encompasses standout roles across cinema including (Whiplash) and (Juno); he also delights audiences by voicing J. Jonah Jameson within Marvel Cinematic Universe projects while lending his creativity to animated series such as Prime Video’s (Invincible).
Matthew Rhys Portraying George Carlin
Finally, we have Matthew Rhys embodying one of television history’s pioneering voices—George Carlin—the very first host when SNL debuted its first episode back on October 11th, 1975. Carlin delivered memorable stand-up routines that set high standards for comedians willing to follow suit over subsequent seasons; Rhys himself has garnered acclaim including accolades from multiple award shows adding depth through portrayals rooted firmly within reality yet maintaining artistic integrity.
By reflecting upon these talented individuals who contributed significantly not only shaping historical entertainment landscapes but continuing their legacies through today’s cultural narratives amplifies our appreciation toward innovation poised at all stages whether it be classic sketches or modern-day retellings represented via creative storytelling ventures alike Saturday Night’s filmic representation invites further dialogue around those entertainers redefining comedy itself throughout evolving eras engaging viewers anew!
Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Mercury Studios; Herb Ball/NBCU Photo Bank
