A newly released biography reveals the intense backlash that Saturday Night Live (SNL) creator Lorne Michaels faced from his own staff after allowing Donald Trump to host the late-night show in 2015. The decision, made during Trump’s presidential campaign, led to internal outrage, with one writer allegedly suggesting that Michaels should be shot in the back of the head.
The biography, Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live by Susan Morrison, details how Michaels’ decision to bring Trump onto the show created a divide among staff. Many felt that his appearance served as an implicit endorsement of the controversial candidate, leading to accusations that SNL contributed to Trump’s election victory the following year.
Writers Clashed Over Trump’s Hosting Gig
According to Morrison, former SNL writer Tim Robinson openly expressed his frustration, stating that Michaels had “lost his f*****g mind” for allowing Trump to host. He reportedly went even further, saying that “someone needs to shoot him in the back of the head.”
Despite the controversy, Michaels defended the decision at the time, insisting that SNL remained a neutral, nonpartisan platform. He argued that while the show had its biases, it did not actively push a political agenda.
“It’s the hardest thing for me to explain to this generation that the show is nonpartisan,” Michaels said, according to the book. “We have our biases, we have our people we like better than others, but you can’t be Samantha Bee.”
Michaels’ reference to Bee, a former Daily Show correspondent known for her sharp critiques of Trump, further emphasized his stance that SNL should remain separate from overt political commentary.
SNL Staff Felt Responsible for Trump’s Victory
The biography also reveals that Michaels allegedly toned down a harsh sketch about Trump in an effort to make the then-candidate appear more likable. Staff members claimed that Michaels wanted Trump to display “some charm” and was helping a “billionaire friend” by softening the show’s usual satirical approach.
Some SNL writers reportedly felt guilty after Trump won the election in 2016, believing the show had contributed to his rise. According to the book, several staff members were seen “sobbing” in the writers’ room on election night.
Comedian Aidy Bryant was quoted as saying, “But we helped him get elected!” in response to Michaels’ attempt to console the team.
Even Chris Rock, who made a surprise appearance during Trump’s SNL monologue, later questioned Michaels’ decision, asking, “Where are the jokes?”
As the SNL creator prepares to celebrate the show’s 50th anniversary, this biography sheds new light on one of the most controversial moments in its history.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.