Lorne Michaels Assists Keith Richards in Avoiding Prison Following Rolling Stones’ SNL Hosting Appearance
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Iconic producer Lorne Michaels played a pivotal role in preventing Rolling Stones legend Keith Richards from facing a life sentence in prison. As detailed in a passage from the book “Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live” by Susan Morrison, Michaels stepped in to aid the rock star back in 1978. The Rolling Stones took the stage as both host and musical guest for the fourth season premiere of Saturday Night Live. Following this, Michaels, aged 80, intervened to help Richards escape a severe drug-related charge in Canada, as a favour to Mick Jagger.
During an incident in Toronto in 1977, Richards was apprehended by Canadian Mounties at the Harbour Castle Hilton with 22 grams of heroin in his possession. This quantity could have led to a charge of possession with intent to distribute, carrying a potentially hefty sentence. Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood, and Keith Richards were photographed in New York City in October 1978.
Fred Bronson/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty
Morrison’s biography sheds light on Michaels’ strategic approach to assisting the “Miss You” musician ahead of his court appearance. The producer ensured Richards was attired in a well-fitted three-piece suit, steering clear of his usual eccentric attire to present a respectable image in court. The prosecution aimed for strict sentencing due to allegations that the Stones’ music promoted drug use. Conversely, Richards’ legal counsel portrayed him as a “troubled artist.”
As per Morrison, Michaels, operating in his capacity as a producer, guided Richards through the legal proceedings, despite the guitarist not being completely clean during that time. In a tense moment at the courthouse, Richards reportedly indulged in a quick dose of cocaine from a concealed stash. Michaels, aware of this behaviour, grappled with the possibility of having to lie under oath in support of Richards, yet circumstances did not demand such action.
When Michaels took the stand, he was questioned solely about Richards’ contribution to the Rolling Stones as a creative force. Describing Richards as the driving force behind the band, Michaels emphasised the fundamental role the Stones played in shaping the rock music landscape. Ultimately, Richards received a suspended sentence and was mandated to perform at a charity concert for the visually impaired, thereby avoiding incarceration as a result of Michaels’ intervention.
The Rolling Stones showcased their musical prowess during their Saturday Night Live appearance in 1978, captivating the audience with performances from their album “Some Girls.” Decades later, Richards marked the show’s milestone 50th-anniversary commemoration by attending the SNL50: The Anniversary Special in February 2025.
The account of Michaels’ assistance in navigating Richards’ legal turmoil presents an intriguing intersection of music and legal affairs. The episode underscores the lasting impact of iconic figures like Richards and Michaels in the realm of entertainment and beyond. This collaboration between two influential figures serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the music industry and broader cultural spheres.
As readers delve into Morrison’s insightful exploration of Michaels and his intervention in Richards’ legal saga, they gain a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics at play behind the scenes of the music world. The narrative shines a light on the power of influential personalities to shape outcomes and steer individuals away from potential pitfalls, enriching the tapestry of rock and roll history with an unexpected twist of legal drama.