Michael Che Shares Intense Moment Witnessed on ‘SNL’: ‘Almost Scary’

Michael Che recently shared his perspective on an intense moment he experienced during his time on Saturday Night Live (SNL). In Netflix’s documentary, Being Eddie, Che described the high-pressure environment surrounding Eddie Murphy’s historic return to SNL after a 35-year absence.

Michael Che Reflects on Eddie Murphy’s Return to SNL

Che highlighted that the episode, which aired on December 21, 2019, was the most tense of his 11-year tenure with the show. Murphy, a defining star of SNL from 1980 to 1984, was set to host the iconic comedy series again, and the stakes were incredibly high. “We would be letting down Eddie Murphy if it was bad,” Che stated, emphasizing the pressure felt by the cast and crew.

The Significance of Eddie Murphy’s Return

Murphy’s absence from the show began in the mid-90s, soon after a controversial joke made by David Spade. However, excitement surged as he prepared to take the stage once more. Lorne Michaels, the executive producer, encouraged Murphy to deliver a more personal monologue during his opening. Despite some apprehension from Murphy, he shared the spotlight with former cast members, including Chris Rock and Tracy Morgan, as well as frequent guest Dave Chappelle.

A Moment to Remember

• Che recalled seeing the excitement among the comedians as they prepared for the show.
• During a rehearsal, Chappelle and Rock expressed their enthusiasm for participating in the historic episode, even calling their mothers to share the news.

“Seeing Eddie Murphy in Studio 8H is indescribable,” Chappelle remarked. This sentiment was echoed by many involved that night. After the live show concluded, Rock commended Michaels, stating, “It was one of the greatest SNLs ever.” He humorously suggested that Michaels should retire following such a landmark episode.

Despite Murphy’s absence from hosting since that show, he did take part in the SNL 50th-anniversary special earlier this year. “Going back to Saturday Night Live was a great experience,” Murphy revealed, noting that his creative energy was revitalized during his return.

As SNL prepares to resume new episodes in January, fans eagerly anticipate more memorable moments on the iconic show.