Veteran actress Glenn Close recently shared a touching memory of receiving hosting advice from her dear friend, the late Robin Williams, before her first Saturday Night Live appearance.
Speaking at the 12th Annual Bring Change to Mind Revels & Revelations Gala, Close, 77, recalled seeking guidance from Williams ahead of her 1989 SNL hosting debut. "I said, 'Do you have any advice about Saturday Night Live?'" Close remembered asking her friend. Williams' response was straightforward yet insightful: "Just don't do anything you don't think is funny."
The acclaimed actress found Williams' words particularly valuable given the variety of comedy ideas typically presented to SNL hosts. Close took the stage at Studio 8H in February 1989, sharing the spotlight with musical guests The Gipsy Kings. The experience proved memorable, with Close describing it as "great fun."
One of the episode's highlights included a comedic sketch featuring Close reprising her famous Fatal Attraction character, Alex Forest, in an amusing group therapy session setting, complete with her character's signature knife and purse. The show also showcased Close's versatility through various characters, including a jealous woman dealing with her sister's death and a musical performance about relationship disagreements.
Close returned to host SNL again in December 1992 for the show's Christmas episode, featuring The Black Crowes as musical guests.
Williams, who passed away in August 2014 at age 62, left an enduring impact not just through his own legendary comedic performances, but also through the guidance he offered to fellow performers like Close.