Judd Apatow, a renowned writer and director, recently reminisced about a past experience with his former roommate, Adam Sandler. In a candid interview with PEOPLE ahead of the release of his new memoir, Comedy Nerd: A Lifelong Obsession in Stories and Pictures, Apatow shared how Sandler left him behind after landing a job on Saturday Night Live. The two creative minds had been living together when Sandler auditioned for the iconic sketch comedy show, and Apatow had always believed in Sandler’s potential for success.
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Recalling their time together, Apatow described the intense focus they shared on writing jokes and honing their craft on stage at night. Their lives revolved around comedy, with no other responsibilities to distract them. Apatow spoke highly of Sandler’s comedic talent and charisma, noting that it was evident to everyone around them that Sandler was destined for greatness. When Sandler secured a spot as a writer on SNL in 1990 and later became a cast member from 1991 to 1995, Apatow knew that his friend’s career was about to take off.
Apatow vividly remembered the moment when Sandler excitedly announced his SNL audition and then just as quickly shared the news of his successful casting, leaving Apatow to navigate their shared apartment alone. Sandler’s rise to fame is just one of the many stories featured in Apatow’s upcoming book, which includes a treasure trove of never-before-seen photos, letters, scripts, and drafts chronicling his decades-long comedy career. Notable figures like Steve Carell, Amy Schumer, and Lena Dunham also contribute to the book with personal anecdotes.
In a gesture of generosity, Sandler provided an early blurb for Apatow’s book, commending the collection of memories and highlighting the abundance of visual content within its pages. Apatow, currently residing in Los Angeles with his wife Leslie Mann, has pledged the proceeds from the book sales to benefit Fire Aid and 826 National, organisations supporting victims of the 2025 L.A. fire and promoting tutoring and literacy programs. Through his memoir, Apatow not only shares his personal journey but also gives back to the community that has supported him throughout his career.
The friendship between Judd Apatow and Adam Sandler serves as a reminder of the enduring bonds forged in the pursuit of creative passions. As Apatow reflects on their early days of collaboration and dreams of success, he fondly recalls the moment when Sandler’s talent propelled him to stardom, leaving behind a supportive roommate and embarking on a legendary career in comedy. Apatow’s memoir promises to offer readers an intimate glimpse into the world of comedy and the close-knit relationships that have shaped his life and work.