Colin Jost Reveals His Biggest Fear Writing for Eddie Murphy on SNL's Milestone Anniversary
Colin Jost, head writer for Saturday Night Live, recently shared a surprisingly relatable experience from the show's 40th-anniversary celebration. While writing for comedy legends is generally considered a dream scenario, Jost admitted to feeling incredibly nervous about crafting jokes for Eddie Murphy, a true icon of the show.
Speaking on The Howard Stern Show, Jost recounted the pressure he felt knowing he was tasked with writing for a comedic force who shaped a generation. Murphy, known for his groundbreaking characters and rapid-fire delivery, set a high bar for anyone following in his footsteps. Jost, along with the writing team, wanted to ensure the material was worthy of Murphy’s talent and legacy.
“It was the 40th anniversary, so we had all these legends coming back,” Jost explained. “And Eddie was one of the first ones we knew was coming back. I was most nervous to write for Eddie.”
The source of Jost's anxiety wasn't a lack of respect for Murphy, but rather a fear of rejection. Jost confessed to anticipating a negative response, expecting Murphy to decline performing a joke, despite offering initial praise. He detailed the moment Murphy told him, “I think it’s funny,” but Jost remained braced for the inevitable follow-up: “But I’m not gonna do it.”
Thankfully, Murphy's reaction was far more positive than Jost’s anxious predictions. The comedian not only found the jokes funny but also agreed to perform them, a testament to the quality of the writing and the collaborative spirit of SNL. Jost’s story highlights the challenges and pressures faced by writers even within the world of comedy, demonstrating that even seasoned professionals experience moments of doubt and anticipation when working with comedic giants.
The 40th-anniversary special was a resounding success, bringing back a host of beloved cast members and showcasing the enduring appeal of Saturday Night Live. Jost’s anecdote offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the meticulous process of crafting comedy for a live audience and the legendary performers who grace the SNL stage. It’s a reminder that even the most successful shows rely on the hard work and dedication of their writing teams, and sometimes, a little bit of nervous anticipation.