Introduction

“Live from New York, it’s stunning revelations about the paychecks of ‘Saturday Night Live’ cast members!”

Pete Davidson's Confession

In a candid video shared by New York Magazine, former and current cast members of the beloved comedy show opened up about their surprising salaries and the amusing splurges they made after joining SNL.

Pete Davidson, who became a household name during his tenure from 2014 to 2022, kicked off the conversation with a jaw-dropping confession. “Do you guys know what they pay us? It’s like three grand an episode. I think I got dinner,” he joked, highlighting the relatively modest payment for the high-profile gig.

Cheri Oteri's Legacy

Cheri Oteri, a fan favorite from the late '90s, recalled her own splurge: a comfortable couch that underwent several reupholsterings. “I remember a designer coming over in tears, saying, ‘We have to get rid of that couch,’ and I was like, ‘Oh no! The couch is staying.’ It was a part of my legacy!” Oteri’s dedication to her couch showcases the quirky character of SNL’s behind-the-scenes life.

Footwear Purchases

Meanwhile, current cast member Bowen Yang and former star Julia Louis-Dreyfus shared insights about their footwear purchases. Yang proudly flaunted his pricey Gucci shoes, while Louis-Dreyfus reminisced about splurging on a pair that set her back a modest $75, revealing the lighter side of consuming on a comedian's budget.

Jason Sudeikis' Reflections

Jason Sudeikis, who served as both a writer and performer from 2003 to 2013, also chimed in to echo Davidson’s sentiment. “You don’t make enough money to make big purchases,” he admitted. “The biggest splurge for me was probably New York rent after I wrote my first year on ‘SNL.’”

Conclusion

Despite being a launchpad for many famous comedians, the financial realities behind the glamorous curtains of SNL show a more relatable side of fame, revealing that even celebrated comedians often face tight budgets.

As ‘Saturday Night Live’ prepares for its 50th anniversary with a star-studded special airing on February 16, fans can look forward to a nostalgic trip down memory lane, celebrating the iconic sketches and unforgettable characters that have defined American late-night television.

So, let’s keep the countdown going! Are you ready for an anniversary celebration that promises laughter, tears, and an inside look at the evolution of comedy in America? Don't miss it!