The New Yorker Radio Hour How “Saturday Night Live” Reinvented Television, Fifty Years Ago
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Jan 24, 2025 
Susan Morrison, editor at New Yorker and author of "Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live," dives into the legacy of Lorne Michaels and the revolutionary impact of SNL on television comedy. She discusses how Michaels innovatively refreshed the cast to resonate with younger audiences. Tina Fey, a notable SNL alumna, shares a reading from a 1975 review, capturing the show's initial audacity. Together, they explore SNL's blend of spontaneity, satire, and the cultural significance that has defined its fifty-year journey.
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Morrison's First Job
- Susan Morrison's first job in NYC was working for Lorne Michaels on his failed show, "The New Show".
- This experience sparked her interest in his work and led her to write a book about him.
The New Yorker's Early SNL Connection
- Lillian Ross and William Shawn, big fans of Richard Pryor, visited SNL in its first season.
- They mentored Michaels, introducing him to NYC, and surprisingly, Shawn was a comedy enthusiast.
SNL and The New Yorker: Parallel Processes
- Both SNL and The New Yorker share similarities in managing creative teams and maintaining weekly output.
- Their processes involve handling egos, making tough decisions, and ensuring continuity.
