Since its inception in 1975, Saturday Night Live (SNL) has become a prominent platform, showcasing an array of comedic talent, from emerging stars to established icons. While the show is celebrated for nurturing talent, it also has a distinct history of parting ways with artists during their peak.
One notable case is Adam Sandler, who, despite achieving remarkable fame, found himself let go from SNL in 1995 alongside his comedic counterpart, Chris Farley. Sandler’s journey on the show began in the early 1990s when he was hired as a writer in 1990. He quickly transitioned to a performer, gaining popularity for his memorable characters such as Opera Man and Canteen Boy.
The Circumstances Surrounding Sandler’s Departure
Adam Sandler’s exit came as a surprise, especially given the strong fan base he and Farley had cultivated. Part of a powerful ensemble known as “The Bad Boys of SNL,”which included legends like Chris Rock, Rob Schneider, and David Spade, their comedic styles resonated deeply with audiences.
During his five-year tenure, Sandler made a significant impact on the show. However, a shift in NBC’s management led to a reorganization. Although the reasons for his dismissal weren’t explicitly stated, it became clear that the new executives desired a different direction for the show, prompting Sandler and Farley’s departure amidst a wider cast shake-up that also included Mike Myers.
In a retrospective conversation with The Hollywood Reporter in 2023, Sandler shared insights about the abrupt termination, revealing that Farley was the one to break the news to him. Lorne Michaels, the show’s creator, tried to mitigate the impact of the decision on the duo, despite it ultimately being a corporate decision. Performance factors played no role in their exit, as both Sandler and Farley had created some of the show’s most iconic sketches.
Understanding Sandler’s Emotions Post-Departure
Sandler disclosed additional feelings about his departure during a 2019 appearance on The Howard Stern Show. He recounted receiving a somewhat stilted message from his manager suggesting he might not return for the next season, a moment he humorously described as awkward. “Yeah, f— you,” he initially responded, masking his disappointment with anger.
“I was probably sad, covering it up with being mad,” he expressed, reflecting on his true feelings at the time.
When Chris Farley also learned of his dismissal, the two comedians found solace in each other’s company. Instead of processing their emotions openly, they coped by expressing faux indignation. Sandler later reflected, “Maybe I would’ve never left because I’m not good at saying goodbye,”hinting at the emotional turmoil of the situation.
The Evolution of Adam Sandler’s Career Post-SNL
Following his exit from SNL, Adam Sandler’s career soared. His breakout film, Billy Madison, premiered in 1995, the same year he parted ways with the show. In 1999, he took another significant step by founding Happy Madison Productions, a company named after his successful early films, which has since produced numerous hits.
After more than two decades, Sandler had the opportunity to return to SNL as a host in 2019. This marked a pivotal return, especially as Chris Rock joined him for the opening monologue, during which he humorously addressed his firing from NBC by singing:
“I was fired… Then I made over 4 billion dollars at the box office, so I guess you could say I won.”
This reunion reflected both a comedic resolution and a significant chapter in Sandler’s enduring legacy in entertainment. Saturday Night Live continues to air every Saturday at 11:30 pm EST on NBC and Peacock, remaining a pivotal part of the sketch comedy landscape.