SNL’s Kenan Thompson commented on a rumor about the show coming to an end.
During Charlamagne tha God’s show “Hell of a Week,” he asked Thompson to talk a little bit more about the show.
“I know they’re celebrating their 50th anniversary in three seasons. And the rumor is the show is ending at its 50th season because Mr. Lorne Michaels doesn’t want to do it after age 80. Is that true?” Charlamagne said.
Thompson replied, “Is that the rumor?” adding, “Well, I need to start planning.”
He continued, “No, I’m just kidding. Um, I mean it, there could be a lot of validity to that rumor because 50 is a good number to stop at. You know what I’m saying? It’s an incredible package.”
Thompson explained Lorne Michaels has “had his touch on the whole thing. So if somebody tries to come into his shoes — you know, it’s a good opportunity for NBC to save money as well. You know what I’m saying? So maybe they might slash the budget and then at that point you can’t really do the same kind of show.”
Check out his comments below:
Charlamagne asked, “So you’re saying the show could not go on without Lorne Michaels is what you’re saying.”
Thompson responded, saying, “I’m not saying that — I’m just saying it opens opportunity for a lot of bullsh*t to come into the game because he’s such a legend that he keeps off those like corporate wolves, if you will.”
The comedian continued, “Not to call them wolves, but it’s business, you know what I’m saying? They spend a lot of money on that show every week. It’s an expensive show, but it’s a one of a kind thing. It’s the only one, you know what I mean? And you know, ‘Live from New York,’ you know what I’m saying?”
In May, it was announced some of the show’s notable cast members were leaving.
It was reported that Kate McKinnon, Aidy Bryant, Kyle Mooney and Pete Davidson were exiting the show.
Davidson said during the show, “I appreciate SNL for always having my back, for allowing me to work on myself and grow.”
He thanked Michaels “for never giving up on me or judging me even when everyone else was, and for believing in me and allowing me to have a place I could call home with the memories that will last a lifetime. So, thank you guys.”