Chevy Chase Reveals He Was ‘Hurt’ by ‘SNL50: The Anniversary Special’ Exclusion
Chevy Chase’s Unexpected Exclusion from ‘SNL50: The Anniversary Special’
Chevy Chase, the legendary comedian and original cast member of Saturday Night Live (SNL), recently revealed that he was deeply hurt by his exclusion from the highly celebrated SNL50: The Anniversary Special. The 82-year-old star, known for his pioneering role as the first anchor of the iconic “Weekend Update” segment, expressed his disappointment in the upcoming CNN documentary titled I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not.
Chase candidly shared, “Well, it was kind of upsetting actually. This is probably the first time I’m saying it. But I expected that I would’ve been on the stage too with all the other actors.” He recounted his confusion when fellow original cast members Garrett Morris and Laraine Newman appeared on stage, while he was noticeably absent. “No one asked me to. Why was I left aside?” he questioned.
This revelation shocked many fans, given Chase’s foundational role in the show’s early success. Despite hosting SNL eight times between 1978 and 1997, his absence from the 50th-anniversary celebration sparked questions about the reasons behind the decision.
Background: Chevy Chase’s Role in Saturday Night Live’s History
Chevy Chase was part of the original ensemble cast when Saturday Night Live debuted in 1975. Alongside other comedy legends like Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, and Gilda Radner, Chase helped shape the show’s groundbreaking style. His “Weekend Update” segment quickly became a fan favorite, setting the tone for the satirical news format that continues today.
Although Chase left the show midway through its second season in 1976, his influence remained significant. He returned as a host multiple times, solidifying his status as an enduring figure in the SNL legacy. Therefore, his exclusion from the SNL50 special was unexpected and, as he admits, painful.
Insights from the Documentary and Behind-the-Scenes Details
In the documentary I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not, Chase reveals that he briefly addressed the issue with SNL creator Lorne Michaels via text but quickly retracted his complaint, calling it “silly.” However, he emphasized that the hurt was real, stating, “Somebody’s made a bad mistake there. They should’ve had me on that stage. It hurt.”
Adding context, Chase’s wife, Jayni, disclosed that Chevy was initially slated for a larger role in the special. She explained that plans were in flux up until the day of the event, with bits being added and removed. “People told Chevy up until that day that there were two bits. They were going back and forth. And then, all of the sudden, ‘No, there’s no bit,’” Jayni said.
Lorne Michaels confirmed the uncertainty, mentioning that there were multiple versions of the “Weekend Update” segment. He also hinted at concerns raised by an unnamed individual about Chase’s focus during the production, which may have influenced the final decision.
Despite the exclusion, Chase still attended the anniversary event at Studio 8H, the iconic SNL studio, marking a bittersweet return to his comedic roots.
The Impact of Exclusion on Chevy Chase and His Legacy
Chevy Chase’s feelings about being left out of the SNL50 special highlight the complex and sometimes tumultuous relationship he has had with the show over the years. Known for his sharp wit and sometimes controversial remarks, Chase has never shied away from speaking his mind, even when it ruffles feathers.
Jason Reitman, director of the 2024 film Saturday Night, which dramatizes the moments leading up to the first SNL broadcast, shared an anecdote illustrating Chase’s candid nature. After watching the film, Chase reportedly told Reitman, “Well, you should be embarrassed.” This blunt feedback exemplifies Chase’s unique blend of humor and honesty.
Despite these ups and downs, Chase’s contributions to comedy and SNL remain undeniable. His pioneering work on “Weekend Update” set a standard that countless comedians have followed. His exclusion from the anniversary special, while painful, does not diminish his legacy.
Recognition from Fellow Cast Members and Fans
Although Chase was not featured prominently in the SNL50 special, fellow cast members and hosts acknowledged his impact. Jimmy Fallon, who hosted the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert shortly before the main event, gave Chase a respectful mention, signaling appreciation for his foundational role.
Fans and comedy historians continue to celebrate Chase’s work, recognizing that his early contributions helped define Saturday Night Live as a cultural institution. His absence from the anniversary stage sparked conversations about how legacies are honored and the complexities behind casting decisions for such landmark events.
Looking Forward: What This Means for Chevy Chase’s Future
The documentary I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not debuts on CNN on January 1, offering an intimate look at the comedian’s life and career. It promises to shed light on his experiences, including the emotional impact of the SNL50 exclusion.
For fans and followers of Saturday Night Live, this moment serves as a reminder of the human side of comedy legends. Behind the laughs and iconic sketches are real people with feelings and histories that shape their journeys.
Conclusion
Chevy Chase’s revelation about feeling hurt by his exclusion from SNL50: The Anniversary Special offers a poignant glimpse into the complexities of fame, legacy, and recognition. As the original “Weekend Update” anchor and a foundational figure in Saturday Night Live history, his absence from the celebration was felt deeply by both him and many fans.
If you want to learn more about Chevy Chase’s remarkable career and his candid reflections on SNL, don’t miss the upcoming CNN documentary I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not. Stay tuned and join the conversation about one of comedy’s most influential figures.
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