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Published -
- July 30, 2021
- 5:44 pm
Over the course of its nearly 50 seasons on air, Saturday Night Live has launched the careers of countless comedians and been host to even more celebrity guests.
While joining the cast of SNL or hosting the show might be a dream gig for plenty of celebrities, certain stars have actually passed on this major opportunity.
Turns out not everyone is cut out for sketch comedy. Reasons for turning down the gig have varied, and while it came down to a matter of timing for some, for others, Saturday Night Live just wasn’t something they wanted to add to their resume. From hilarious comedians to big-time movie actors, these stars flat-out refused to be on SNL.
How has Bill Murray been involved with SNL, and why has he never hosted the show?
Saturday Night Live has been one of the most well-known and celebrated television programs for more than four decades. Over the years, it has hosted some of the biggest names in Hollywood, who have graced the stage with their wit, humor and talent. However, not everyone is thrilled at the prospect of appearing on the show. In fact, some stars have flat-out refused to be on SNL.
Let’s take a look at some of these stars who have declined the offer to be on the show.
1. Donald Trump
Before he was the 45th President of the United States, businessman and television personality Donald Trump was a polarizing figure in entertainment. Despite being a frequent guest on the show, Trump turned down an offer to host SNL in 2015, citing a potential conflict of interest due to his presidential campaign.
2. Bill Murray
Legendary actor and comedian Bill Murray may have starred in some of the most iconic SNL sketches of all time, but he has never hosted the show. In an interview with The New York Times, Murray revealed that he was asked to host the show several times, but always declined. “I thought about it for a long time, but I just couldn’t do it,” he said.
3. Tina Fey
Comedian, writer and actress Tina Fey has a long history with SNL, having worked as a writer and performer on the show for many years. Despite her close ties to the program, Fey has never hosted the show, and has stated in interviews that she doesn’t feel comfortable being the center of attention.
4. Eddie Murphy
Eddie Murphy is one of the most successful SNL alumni of all time, having been a part of the show’s cast in the early 1980s. However, he has not returned to host the show since his departure, and in a 2012 interview with Rolling Stone, Murphy stated that he has no intentions of ever doing so. “It’s just not what I do anymore,” he said.
5. Prince
One of the most iconic musicians of all time, Prince was offered the chance to perform on SNL multiple times over the course of his career, but always declined. In an interview with Chris Rock, Prince explained that he wants to be seen as a musician first and foremost, and that he doesn’t like the idea of being known more for his acting or comedy.
While it’s always disappointing when a favorite star turns down the chance to appear on SNL, it’s important to remember that not everyone is suited for the show. Regardless, SNL will continue to be a beloved institution of American television, and will undoubtedly continue to attract some of the biggest names in entertainment.
