Revisiting SNL’s Evolution: Comedy Becomes Bolder and More Political

Revisiting SNL’s Evolution: Comedy Becomes Bolder and More Political

As the iconic television program “Saturday Night Live” approaches its 50th anniversary, legendary cast members Jon Lovitz, Kevin Nealon, and Siobhan Fallon Hogan reflect on the significant changes in comedy over the decades. They assert that comedy has not only gained popularity but also adopted a snarkier, more political edge.

Transformation in Comedy’s Landscape

In an engaging conversation with Fox News Digital, the trio discussed how both the stand-up comedy scene and SNL itself have evolved alongside the rise of social media and tumultuous political climates. Nealon remarked on the shifting nature of comedy content, stating that sketches have become shorter and punchier due to audience preferences for quick, digestible humor.

“When I started comedy, it was totally different. Comedy was longer, and our sketches had more substance. These days, however, everything is shaped by a short attention span,” Nealon explained. He further noted that this evolution may have contributed to a noticeable increase in snarkiness, adding a fresh flavor to modern comedy.

The Impact of Social Media

A significant factor in the transformation of comedy is undoubtedly social media’s role in democratizing entertainment. Nealon believes that platforms like TikTok and Instagram have enabled comedians to reach wider audiences effortlessly. He stated, “And people want little snippets, cravings for more content rather than longer material. It’s like a buffet of laughs.”

Modern stand-up comics such as Shane Gillis and Nate Bargatze are prime examples of this trend, as their recent global tours have set records and attracted immense crowds. Gillis, in particular, has shattered benchmarks for ticket sales, including establishing the highest records ever at prominent venues like Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena and Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center.

Growth in Stand-Up

Bargatze made headlines for having the highest-grossing stand-up tour in 2024, breaking attendance records at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, previously held by a renowned country musician. Nealon believes that the power of social media has contributed significantly to the growing appeal of stand-up comedy, stating that without these platforms, much of this success would not be possible.

Shifts in Stature and Influence

Lovitz joined the conversation, emphasizing that stand-up comedy, particularly in live settings, has never been more prominent. Reflecting on his own experiences, he mentioned the significant number of comics who now play arenas and stadiums, a feat that was once limited to only a select few comedians.

“Steve Martin was the first guy to play arenas, and then Andrew Dice Clay followed. Now it’s incredible; we have several comedians doing the same, like Jo Koy, who used to open for me and is now a global sensation,” Lovitz noted.

Late-Night Comedy’s Political Shift

Lovitz also dissected the changes in late-night comedy and its increasingly political tone. He pointed out that while classic hosts like Johnny Carson and David Letterman steered clear of political commentary, today’s stars such as Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and Stephen Colbert have embraced more contentious topics.

“They’ve become far more political than they used to be,” Lovitz said. He acknowledged the immense talent of current hosts but expressed nostalgia for the simpler comedic approach of earlier eras.

A Shift in Viewership

Despite SNL’s status as a cultural institution, the show has experienced a decline in viewership during election cycles. According to Nielsen Research, the post-election episode averaged just 4.4 million viewers, a significant drop from the 9.2 million who tuned in following the 2020 election.

“For me, it’s about missing the pure comedy. Back in my time, late-night shows were comedy-focused, and the format remained largely consistent for decades,” Lovitz shared.

The Future of Comedy on Televison

Siobhan Fallon Hogan, who graced the SNL stage in the early ’90s before moving on to notable film roles, noted how the internet has transformed audience consumption of comedy. She suggested that the abundance of content available today has lessened SNL’s cultural impact, with viewers often opting for shorter clips instead of full episodes.

“You know, there are so many options now. People often just watch snippets rather than the entire show, further lessening the show’s cultural relevance. In the past, viewers discussed SNL episodes for days after airing,” she explained.

A Celebration of Longevity

Despite these challenges, Hogan praised the show’s remarkable longevity. “For Lorne Michaels to run SNL for 50 years is phenomenal. His talent and vision for the show is unparalleled. It remains a prodigious achievement in the entertainment industry,” she remarked.

As SNL marks its 50-year journey, the reflections from these iconic comedians provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of comedy. The blend of accessibility through social media, the increasing snarkiness, and the enhanced focus on political content all point to a vibrant future for the genre, albeit one that strays from its original roots.