The enigmatic Lorne Michaels, the mastermind behind the iconic show Saturday Night Live (SNL), is the focus of Morgan Neville’s latest documentary, titled ‘Lorne’. Through a series of interviews with SNL alumni including John Mulaney, Andy Samberg and Tina Fey, the film attempts to unravel the complexity of Michaels’ personality and his profound impact on those who have worked closely with him over the decades.
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At 81, Michaels has become a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, often described as a private and somewhat mysterious individual. Yet, ‘Lorne’ delves into the relationships he has fostered with cast members, revealing a side of him that is caring and deeply invested in their lives beyond the confines of the studio.
John Mulaney, who honed his skills as an SNL writer from 2008 to 2013, shares personal insights in the documentary, highlighting the pivotal role Michaels played during challenging times in his life. In 2020, Mulaney faced a setback with addiction and entered rehab. He recounts how Michaels reached out to him, offering unwavering support during this difficult period. The comedian recalls the late-night phone conversations, where Michaels reassured him he was just a call away, ready to listen for as long as needed.
Mulaney’s reflections on their discussions provide a harrowing glimpse into the gravity of addiction. He recalls a moment during one of their lengthy chats when Michaels told him about the tragic story of John Belushi, a former SNL cast member whose life was cut short by drugs. Michaels stressed the ripple effect of such tragedies on loved ones, likening it to shrapnel from a bomb. Mulaney noted, “He goes, ‘John didn’t want to die. Just because it’s part of history, people don’t want to die from this.’”
The documentary illuminates the emotional connections between Michaels and his former cast members. Mulaney’s genuine affection for Michaels resonates throughout his interview, as he expresses sadness at the thought of losing such a significant figure in his life. He affirms, “I like hanging out with this guy so much,” making it clear that Michaels represents more than just a boss.
Moreover, the film captures Michaels in moments of celebration alongside his cast when they experience personal milestones. According to Neville, it is during these times—weddings, births, and even bereavements—that Michaels often steps in to provide support. “When they got married, when they had a child, when a parent died… that’s when Lorne would show up. I feel like that’s Lorne at his best,” Neville notes.
Notably, the documentary recounts anecdotes such as when Michaels offered to build a nursery in the SNL office for Maya Rudolph and Amy Poehler when they were both expecting. Such gestures reveal a level of investment that transcends professional boundaries, solidifying Michaels’ reputation as a nurturing figure amongst his colleagues.
Andy Samberg, another beloved former cast member, shares a profound appreciation for Michaels, likening their relationship to that of a father and son. He recalls how Michaels’ words of encouragement have left a lasting impact, stating, “I remember every single nice thing that Lorne has ever said about me.” This testimony underscores the respect and admiration that many of his former employees hold for him.
Michaels himself reflects on his time spent nurturing talent, saying, “Watching people come into their own… that moment is huge.” His commitment to fostering careers demonstrates an understanding of the significant role he has played in shaping the landscape of comedy and entertainment in America.
As audiences engage with ‘Lorne’, they are offered a rare opportunity to glimpse the man behind one of television’s longest-running and most beloved programmes. The documentary is currently screening in theatres, allowing viewers to delve deep into the life of a figure who has inadvertently become a father figure to many in the industry.
For those interested in learning more about Lorne Michaels and exploring his influence on SNL and its cast, tickets are available on the Focus Features website, making this documentary a must-see for fans of comedy and television history.