Seth Meyers, a renowned comedian and writer famous for his work on SNL and hosting "Late Night with Seth Meyers," joins Mike for a lively discussion. They reveal behind-the-scenes secrets of SNL, including who the funniest cast members are and speculate on Lorne Michaels' successor. The conversation takes a darkly humorous turn with topics like serial killers and D.A.R.E, while also exploring the pressures of transitioning roles in comedy. Personal anecdotes, celebrity encounters, and the dynamics of friendship add charm to their engaging dialogue.
Seth Meyers discusses the evolving dynamics of SNL and speculates on Kenan Thompson's potential as Lorne Michaels' successor, emphasizing adaptability.
Meyers shares insights into his return to stand-up comedy, highlighting the artistic struggles of developing new material for his HBO special.
The importance of collaboration and humility in comedy is underscored by Meyers, reflecting on maintaining kindness and support in a competitive industry.
Deep dives
Seth Meyers' SNL Narrative
Seth Meyers discusses the ongoing speculation surrounding Lorne Michaels' potential departure from Saturday Night Live (SNL) as it approaches its 50th anniversary. He emphasizes that this narrative is misleading, asserting that Michaels has no plans to leave as he remains passionate about the show. Meyers believes comedian Kenan Thompson, who has been with the show for nearly two decades, is well-positioned to take over, given his unique ability to provide fresh perspectives and energy on the show while still maintaining a youthful appearance. This highlights the evolving nature of SNL and how longstanding cast members adapt over time.
Comedy Special Insights
Meyers reflects on his process of preparing for his HBO comedy special, 'Dad Man Walking', focusing on his return to stand-up after years of hosting late-night television. He shares the artistic challenges he faced in creating the material, which contributed to the special's success. The discussions surrounding his stand-up preparation showcase the balance between writing jokes and delivering them effectively to an audience. Additionally, the conversation touches on his collaborations with fellow comedians, including plans for shows at the Beacon Theater.
Lessons from SNL
Meyers offers insights into the nuanced dynamics within SNL, discussing the meritocracy that governs sketch selection and writing. He recalls moments observing fellow cast members and the tension that sometimes arose with difficult hosts, which ultimately became cherished memories. The importance of humor in dealing with adversity and creative tension collaboratively becomes a recurring theme in his reflections. Meyers also shares his own journey from struggling cast member to head writer, noting the significance of patience and adaptation in such a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Collaboration and Creativity
The podcast highlights the significance of collaboration among comedians, emphasizing the importance of not just pitching ideas, but also ensuring they enhance the original concept. Meyers underlines the need for humor to be improved upon rather than simply repositioned, encouraging a culture of creative growth among peers. This fosters a healthy dynamic that allows for experimentation and learning from both successes and failures in the comedic landscape. The conversation serves as an inspiring reminder of the creative journey comedians undertake during their careers.
Reflections on Kindness and Success
Meyers expresses gratitude for his career trajectory, attributing his kindness and supportive nature in the industry to his upbringing and a genuine appreciation for the opportunities he has received. He shares an anecdote about wanting to maintain a positive atmosphere on set after achieving his dreams, reflecting on how success should not breed arrogance but rather foster generosity towards others. Additionally, he discusses the challenges of staying grounded in a competitive field while navigating personal and professional relationships. This self-awareness and humility serve as key takeaways in his journey in the entertainment industry.
(Recorded March 2024) Mike sits down with the legendary comedian and writer Seth Meyers for a conversation that reveals who is secretly the funniest of the funniest at SNL behind-the-scenes and who was the most popular Strike Force Five host. Then, Mike and Seth work out new material about serial killers, the D.A.R.E. program, and dropping acid in Amsterdam. Plus: who will take over for Lorne Michaels after he leaves SNL?