In a recent interview on Watch What Happens Live, former Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast members shared amusing anecdotes about celebrities’ reactions to their impersonations. Laraine Newman, a member of the original SNL cast, recounted a rather awkward encounter with the iconic singer Barbra Streisand. Newman revealed that she once impersonated Streisand in a 1977 sketch without the singer’s prior knowledge. However, when they coincidentally crossed paths at a bar mitzvah, Streisand expressed a desire to talk to Newman, who promptly left the scene to avoid the confrontation.
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The SNL alums, including Cheri Oteri, Ana Gasteyer, Cecily Strong, and Rachel Dratch, reminisced about their time on the show and the various celebrity impressions they performed. Oteri shared a lighthearted experience where Judge Judy herself acknowledged her impression on the show. Gasteyer also mentioned positive interactions with Martha Stewart and Celine Dion, highlighting the graciousness of these celebrities towards their SNL portrayals.
Impressions on SNL can sometimes receive mixed reactions from the celebrities being impersonated. In a recent incident, Oasis singer Liam Gallagher expressed his dissatisfaction with an impersonation of him and his brother on the show. Despite the criticism, the cast members involved in the skit, James Austin Johnson and Sarah Sherman, maintained a sense of humour about the situation, with Sherman even playfully interacting with Gallagher’s comments on social media.
Celebrity reactions to SNL impressions can vary widely, from amusement to discomfort. While some stars, like Martha Stewart and Celine Dion, embrace the humour of the impersonations, others, such as Liam Gallagher, may find them less than flattering. Ultimately, SNL’s tradition of celebrity impersonations adds a unique and comedic element to the show, showcasing the talent and versatility of its cast members.
Impersonating public figures on SNL has been a longstanding tradition, with cast members embodying various celebrities over the show’s extensive history. From politicians to actors, musicians, and TV personalities, SNL has showcased a wide array of impersonations that have become iconic in pop culture. The interactions between the cast members and the celebrities they impersonate offer a glimpse into the entertaining dynamics of comedy and celebrity culture.
Despite occasional awkward encounters, such as Laraine Newman’s avoidance of Barbra Streisand, the SNL cast members continue to reflect fondly on their time on the show and the memorable celebrity impressions they brought to life. The upcoming 50th anniversary special of Saturday Night Live serves as a celebration of the show’s legacy and the countless comedic moments it has provided to audiences over the years.
As SNL continues to entertain viewers with its unique brand of comedy and celebrity impersonations, the behind-the-scenes stories shared by the cast offer a glimpse into the creative process and the interactions that occur with the real-life figures being parodied. From amusing anecdotes to unexpected encounters, the world of SNL celebrity impersonations remains a captivating and entertaining aspect of the iconic sketch comedy show.