While Saturday Night Live is renowned for cultivating comedic talent, it is essential to recognize that the celebrated stars of the show commenced their journeys from humble beginnings within the walls of Studio 8H. In honor of SNL’s remarkable 50th anniversary, cast members—both current and former—articulated their experiences to New York Magazine, reflecting on their initial splurges following their momentous ascent to fame in the context of this enduring institution.
The range of expenditures varied notably, spanning from footwear to furnishings; however, a recurring theme emerged among the interviewees: novice writers typically receive compensation far less commensurate with public perception. Below, we highlight the insights shared by several SNL luminaries.
Pete Davidson candidly remarked, "Are you aware of our compensation? It amounts to approximately three thousand dollars per episode. My splurge was essentially a dinner."
James Austin Johnson recounted, “We procured the most excruciatingly uncomfortable West Elm couch imaginable—it’s practically constructed of bricks."
Julia Louis-Dreyfus reflected, “I indulged in a pair of shoes that exceeded my financial limits—$75.”
Rachel Dratch shared, “Most likely, securing an apartment. It may seem mundane, but it is undeniably real.”
Sarah Silverman mentioned, “I treated myself to a cashmere sweater, which set me back around $300.”
Jason Sudeikis stated, “Given the limited financial rewards, New York rent constituted my most significant expenditure after embarking on my inaugural year with SNL.”
Sarah Sherman opted for “a commendable mattress,” while Cheri Oteri humorously noted, “A couch, which I have reupholstered multiple times.”
Seth Meyers described acquiring “a substantial couch from Crate & Barrel and a large television from Best Buy.”
Bowen Yang reminisced about purchasing a pair of Gucci shoes from Saks, illustrating both a trend and a personal evolution.
This dialogue is not unprecedented; earlier, Davidson and fellow Weekend Update anchor Colin Jost—both hailing from Staten Island—infamously invested $280,000 in a decommissioned Staten Island Ferry in 2022, envisioning its transformation into an entertainment venue. Jost subsequently labeled the venture “the most ill-conceived purchase of my life.”
Given these reflections, it becomes evident that even iconic stars navigate the complexities of fiscal responsibility amidst their burgeoning creative careers.
Vocabulary List:
- Compensation /ˌkɒmpənˈseɪʃən/ (noun): Payment or reward given for service or loss.
- Expenditure /ɪkˈspɛndɪtʃər/ (noun): The amount of money spent on something.
- Candidly /ˈkændɪdli/ (adverb): In an honest and straightforward way.
- Excruciatingly /ɪkˈskruːʃieɪtɪŋli/ (adverb): In a way that causes great pain or distress.
- Navigating /ˈnævɪɡeɪtɪŋ/ (verb): Finding a way through a difficult course or situation.
- Ill-conceived /ˌɪl.kənˈsiːvd/ (adjective): Poorly planned or designed.
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