Comedian Conan O'Brien recently opened up about his time as a writer on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), expressing regret over his intense approach to the job. In a candid conversation on his podcast "Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend," the former late-night host shared his thoughts with guest Tom Hanks.
O'Brien, who worked at SNL from 1988 to 1991, admitted, "I regret being so intense about that job. I was way too intense, and I think I robbed myself of some fun that I could have had." He acknowledged that while he did enjoy his time there, he believes he could have had even more fun and potentially extended his tenure if he hadn't made the experience "such a grind" for himself.
The comedian's reflections offer a glimpse into the high-pressure environment of SNL's writers' room. Despite the stress, O'Brien expressed gratitude for the unique opportunities the show provided. He praised SNL creator Lorne Michaels for his "brilliant" approach to working with writers, allowing them significant creative input and responsibility.
Hanks, who has hosted SNL multiple times, fondly recalled O'Brien's early days on the show, dubbing him and his fellow writers the "Boiler Room Boys." This nickname paints a picture of the behind-the-scenes intensity that O'Brien now views with a mixture of nostalgia and regret.
After leaving SNL, O'Brien went on to write for "The Simpsons" before launching his successful career as a late-night talk show host. His candid admission serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing hard work with enjoyment, even in high-stakes creative environments.
O'Brien's reflections offer valuable insight for aspiring comedy writers and performers, suggesting that while dedication is crucial, allowing oneself to enjoy the process can lead to longevity and satisfaction in a demanding field.