Kenan Thompson Says He’s Ending SNL With Lorne Michaels’ Leaving ‘Might Not Be A Bad Idea’

Saturday night live Without his guidance, producer Lorne Michaels is unimaginable to some. But maybe something is brewing.

Speaking of Charlamagne, Kenan Thompson said on the God’s Hell of a Week podcast that when SNL reaches its 50th anniversary in the 2024-2025 season, it may be time to put him to sleep. Michaels is 77 years old and there has been some speculation from Michaels that he is considering retiring once SNL reaches its milestone.

“The rumor is that the show is ending in season 50 because Mr. Lorne Michaels doesn’t want to do that after 80 years. Right?” Charlemagne asked Thompson.

“Is this a rumor?” Thompson replied. “Well, I have to start planning.”

Michaels was SNL’s showrunner throughout its entire run, except for a five-year tenure in the mid-1980s.

“This rumor may have a lot of validity because 50 is a good number to stop,” Thompson said. Said. “It’s an amazing package. He’ll probably be in his 80s by then and you know, he’s in touch with everything.

“So if someone tries on the shoes, you know, it’s a good opportunity to save money for NBC too, you know what I mean?” [NBC] Maybe the budget is cut and you can’t really do the same show at the time. So it’s unfair to see it flare up because of these restrictions… limiting it to 50 might not be a bad idea.”

“[Michaels] It’s so legendary it repels corporate wolves, so to speak,” Thompson added. “They spend a lot of money on this show every week. An expensive show, but something unique. “

Michaels has stated that he intends to end his career in 2025.

“You know what, I think I’m ready to do this show on my 50th birthday, three years from now,” the Canadian-born singer said in December 2021. I feel like it would be a really good time to go. But… I never want the show to be bad. I care about him very deeply. It was my life’s work. So I will do my best to keep going.”