Robert Downey Jr. Shares Insights from His 'SNL' Experience
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Synopsis
On January 20, Robert Downey Jr. reflected on his time on 'Saturday Night Live' during the docuseries 'SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night,' expressing gratitude for the lessons learned and the friendships formed, especially with Anthony Michael Hall.
Key Takeaways
- Robert Downey Jr. acknowledges his acting limitations.
- His stint on SNL enriched his performance skills.
- He was just 20 when he joined the show.
- Anthony Michael Hall played a key role in his SNL audition.
- Season 11 faced criticism for its overall quality.
Los Angeles, Jan 20 (NationPress) Hollywood icon Robert Downey Jr. has a clear understanding of his limitations and the extent to which he can push his acting abilities.
He expressed his appreciation for the comedy sketch series, noting how it enriched his skills as a performer, according to People magazine.
The Iron Man actor, now 59, appears in the new four-part docuseries SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night, which explores the history and impact of the legendary late-night sketch show Saturday Night Live.
According to People, he was a cast member during season 11, which aired from 1985 to 1986. At just 20 years old, the actor reflected on his short time with SNL, stating that it offered him valuable insights into his strengths and weaknesses as a performer.
“I learned so much in that year about what I wasn’t. But there’s not a more exciting 90 minutes you could have, whether you are any good or not,” he shared.
The Oppenheimer star also revealed that he landed the role on the iconic sketch series thanks to his close friend Anthony Michael Hall, who was also part of the 1985-1986 cast.
“Michael Hall said to me, 'I’m gonna go do SNL. I’m gonna get you an audition and I bet you’re gonna get yourself on the show too,'” Downey reminisced.
Hall, who is featured in the docuseries and was the youngest cast member ever hired at just 17, reflected on the challenges he faced during his time on the comedy powerhouse.
“When I look back, I have some memories of it being difficult,” he admitted, acknowledging that it was likely tough for the show's writers to create material for someone so young.
Season 11 included several other now-famous performers, such as Joan Cusack, Damon Wayans, Randy Quaid, Jon Lovitz, and Al Franken. However, this season is regarded as one of the weakest in SNL history by fans and critics alike, leading many cast members to be replaced by season 12.
