4 Comedians Who Bombed SNL Auditions—And What Happened Next

URGENT UPDATE: New revelations about famous comedians who auditioned for Saturday Night Live (SNL) and faced rejection are making waves today. As the iconic show celebrates over 50 years of launching comedy careers, it is equally notable for the talent that didn’t make the cut.

Kevin Hart was among the hopefuls, auditioning in 2001. According to reports, Hart was thrilled to showcase his skills but struggled with the requirement for impressions. His portrayal of former NBA player Avery Johnson and attempts at mimicking actors Robert De Niro and Denzel Washington fell flat. Hart later revealed he was embarrassed and left without a clear grasp of his performance.

Next in line was Bill Maher, who came close to landing the coveted “Weekend Update” role. He competed against Al Franken and was heavily favored, having the same agent as SNL creator Lorne Michaels. Ultimately, Maher lost out to Norm Macdonald, a choice influenced by writer Jim Downey. Ironically, both Maher and Macdonald were eventually let go from the show.

Kevin James also faced disappointment in the mid-1990s. His audition, which he later described as the “worst” of his career, yielded no laughs for his stand-up routine. Despite the rejection, James considers this misstep a blessing that allowed him to secure his iconic role in “The King of Queens.”

Perhaps the most surprising entry is Jim Carrey, who auditioned for SNL multiple times but was rejected each time. The reasons remain unclear, but Lorne Michaels has denied direct involvement in the decisions. Notably, Carrey left a lasting impression on future SNL stars Dana Carvey and Phil Hartman, who witnessed his incredible audition, including a memorable handstand on his pinky finger.

These stories highlight the unpredictable nature of show business and the factors that can influence a performer’s trajectory. The impact of these rejections is profound, as many of these comedians went on to achieve significant success elsewhere.

As SNL continues to be a launching pad for new talent, the lessons learned from past auditions serve as a reminder that every setback can lead to unforeseen opportunities. Fans of comedy will undoubtedly reflect on these pivotal moments, sharing their thoughts and reactions as the discussion heats up across social media.

Stay tuned for more updates as we delve deeper into the world of comedy and the careers shaped by both success and rejection.