Laraine Newman, a former cast member of Saturday Night Live, recently opened up about her experience kissing O.J. Simpson on the iconic comedy show back in 1978. During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Newman, along with other SNL veterans, Cheri Oteri, Ana Gasteyer, Cecily Strong, and Rachel Dratch, reminisced about their time on the show and played a game of “Work the Polls” with host Andy Cohen.
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When the topic of athletes hosting SNL came up, Newman timidly admitted that she was part of the cast when O.J. Simpson hosted the show. She went on to reveal that not only was Simpson a “good” host but also a “good kisser.” The moment in question was during a parody sketch of the controversial film “Mandingo” in 1978. The film, centered around a plantation owner’s affair with a slave, was described by Cohen as something that “wouldn’t play today.”
Simpson, who rose to fame as a football player before becoming embroiled in a highly publicized murder trial, hosted Saturday Night Live in its third season alongside Ashford & Simpson. Despite the success of his hosting gig on SNL, Simpson’s life took a dark turn in 1994 when he was accused of fatally stabbing his wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman. The subsequent trial and acquittal in criminal court, followed by a civil case where he was found liable, marked a turbulent period in his life.
On April 10, 2024, Simpson’s family announced his passing at the age of 76 after battling cancer. The statement released by his family requested privacy and grace during their time of mourning. The legacy of O.J. Simpson remains a complex and controversial chapter in American pop culture and sports history.
The revelation by Laraine Newman about her on-screen kiss with O.J. Simpson provides a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes moments of Saturday Night Live, a show known for pushing boundaries and creating unforgettable comedy sketches. The mix of nostalgia and intrigue surrounding Simpson’s time on the show continues to spark conversations about the intersection of entertainment and real-life controversies.
As fans and critics alike reflect on the history of Saturday Night Live and its impact on popular culture, moments like the one shared by Laraine Newman serve as reminders of the show’s ability to captivate audiences while navigating sensitive and challenging subject matter. The dynamic mix of comedy, satire, and social commentary has been a hallmark of SNL throughout its storied run, showcasing the talents of performers like Newman and the cultural significance of guest hosts like O.J. Simpson.
In the ever-evolving landscape of television and entertainment, Saturday Night Live remains a touchstone for generations of viewers, offering a platform for comedic expression and cultural critique. Laraine Newman’s candid recollection of her experience with O.J. Simpson on SNL sheds light on the complexities of show business and the enduring impact of the iconic sketch show on both its participants and audiences.
As the legacy of Saturday Night Live continues to shape the landscape of comedy and television, moments like Laraine Newman’s revelation about her on-screen kiss with O.J. Simpson serve as a testament to the show’s ability to provoke thought, stir controversy, and entertain audiences with its unique blend of humor and commentary. The enduring appeal of SNL lies in its ability to capture the zeitgeist of each era it inhabits, making it a cultural touchstone that resonates across generations.