“Hacks’” Hannah Einbinder Looks Back on Testing for “SNL” 4 Decades After Mom Laraine Newman Was a Cast Member (Exclusive)

Hannah Einbinder Reflects on ‘SNL’ Audition Following Mother Laraine Newman’s Legacy

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Hannah Einbinder, the Emmy-nominated breakout star of ‘Hacks,’ shared her experience auditioning for ‘Saturday Night Live’ (SNL). The audition holds a special significance for Einbinder as it connects her to her mother, Laraine Newman, who was an original cast member of SNL in 1975.
Newman, now 73, appeared in 106 episodes over the first five seasons of SNL. In a recent appearance on the show’s 50th-anniversary special, she revisited the iconic Studio 8H with Pete Davidson for a nostalgic sketch. Einbinder, 29, recounted how her journey to potentially joining SNL began at the ‘New Faces of Comedy’ showcase at Just for Laughs in Montreal in 2019.

While Einbinder didn’t end up becoming a regular SNL cast member, she did have a memorable cameo in the show’s 50th season premiere alongside her ‘Hacks’ co-star, Jean Smart. The mother-daughter duo introduced the musical guest, Jelly Roll, in a heartwarming moment at Studio 8H. Despite the legacy of her mother, Einbinder faced the SNL screen test with confidence due to her background as a stand-up comedian.
Speaking about her audition process for ‘Hacks,’ Einbinder mentioned how it began just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, leading to Zoom meetings and a high-risk screen test with Smart. The on-screen chemistry between Einbinder’s character, writer Ava Daniels, and Smart’s character, comedian Deborah Vance, adds an exciting dynamic to season 4 of ‘Hacks.’

Einbinder expressed her joy in working with Smart and highlighted the positive atmosphere on the set of ‘Hacks.’ She shared how she actively fosters a cheerful environment, ensuring that everyone, from the crew to her co-stars, feels welcomed and valued. The camaraderie and playful energy on set contribute to the success of the show and create a pleasant working environment for all involved.

The bond between Einbinder and Smart extends beyond the screen, as evidenced by their support for each other on and off-camera. Einbinder has embraced her role as the “mayor of the set,” spreading positivity and laughter among the cast and crew. This camaraderie not only enhances the filming experience but also reflects the genuine connection between the actors involved.
As ‘Hacks’ continues to captivate audiences with its witty humour and compelling characters, Einbinder’s journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring comedians and actors. Her ability to navigate auditions and screen tests with confidence, alongside her commitment to fostering a positive work environment, showcases her professionalism and talent in the industry.
With ‘Hacks’ season 4 airing new episodes weekly, fans can look forward to more engaging performances from Einbinder and the cast. The show’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the team behind the scenes and the captivating performances delivered by the talented actors, including Einbinder and Smart.

In conclusion, Einbinder’s reflections on her SNL audition and her experiences on ‘Hacks’ offer valuable insights into the world of comedy and television production. As she continues to make her mark in the entertainment industry, Einbinder’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and creating a positive work environment for all involved.