Did Norm Macdonald Really Quit Saturday Night Live (SNL)?
Norm Macdonald is one of the most celebrated and beloved comedians of his generation. His tenure on the laugh factory, Saturday Night Live (SNL), was marked by unexpected twists and dubious rumors. Many believed that Macdonald’s relationship with the network came to a sour end when he supposedly quit during the show's 1998 season. However, these reports were far from the truth, and in this article, we will explore the reality behind Macdonald and SNL's relationship, debunking the myths along the way.
Norm Macdonald and SNL's Not So Smooth Ride
Norm Macdonald’s career took off like a rocket when he joined Saturday Night Live (SNL) in 1993. Arguably, he was a key contributor to one of the show's most iconic and successful seasons. However, his relationship with the network didn’t always sail smoothly. The friction between Macdonald and NBC, particularly Don Ohlmeyer, NBC West Coast Entertainment President, is well documented in various blogs and forums. Don Ohlmeyer was notorious for his temper and animosity towards Macdonald.
Did Norm Quit SNL in 1998?
One of the most persistent rumors surrounding Norm Macdonald is that he quit Saturday Night Live in 1998. However, the cable has been cleared from the holster on this one.
Empirical Evidence Against the Rumors
Norm Macdonald was never officially fired from SNL. Instead, the situation was far more nuanced. In fact, Macdonald appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman on May 29, 1998, a mere week after the show. This appearance not only disproves the rumor but also provides an unexpected and unforgettable comedic performance from Macdonald. In his segment, Macdonald told the story himself with his signature wit, making it impossible to take the rumor seriously.
Ohlmeyer's Vendetta and Promotion BlockadeOhlmeyer's vindictiveness towards Macdonald was well-documented. His actions became more vindictive when he caused NBC to block the promotional spot for Macdonald's film, Dirty Work (1998), from airing. The promo spot was crucial for promoting the film, but Ohlmeyer’s actions ensured that it never reached the audience. This is a clear indication of the ongoing tension between the comedian and the network.
Adding insult to injury, Ohlmeyer also refused to allow the film studio to purchase airtime to promote the film himself. To add further evidence to the narrative, Ohlmeyer reportedly said:
"Norm Macdonald was a joke and a disgrace to the show. If he thinks he can just disappear and be a little starlet in Hollywood, he’s sadly mistaken. Saturday Night Live is a comedy, and he’s a liability."
The Legacy of Norm Macdonald and SNL
Despite the turmoil behind the scenes, Macdonald left a lasting legacy on Saturday Night Live. His improvisational skills, rapid-fire wit, and unique delivery style have frequently been cited as some of the most memorable moments in SNL's history. Even now, decades after leaving the show, his performances are fondly remembered by both fans and colleagues alike. By 2014, long after his departure, a YouTube video showcasing Macdonald's episode was viewed over 21.4 million times. This demonstrates the enduring impact of his humor and the nostalgic value of his work with SNL.
Conclusion
The rumors that Norm Macdonald quit Saturday Night Live in 1998 have been debunked. Instead, a more nuanced picture emerges where Macdonald faced a hostile environment from NBC and its executives. His departure from the show was a result of a difficult working situation rather than an amicable separation. Despite the challenges, Norm Macdonald's contribution to SNL is celebrated, and his performances remain beloved by audiences worldwide.