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Kenan Thompson Discusses New SNL Cast Members’ Salaries at Gala

During a gala, Kenan Thompson discussed the necessity for new SNL cast members to ‘pay their dues,’ in light of Pete Davidson’s revelation about a starting salary of $3,000 per episode. The event not only highlighted the cast’s camaraderie but also served as a fundraiser for the museum’s educational programs, raising over $2.5 million, with performances by Arcade Fire adding to the festive atmosphere.

At a recent gala, Kenan Thompson shared thoughts on the financial realities of new cast members at “Saturday Night Live” (SNL), emphasizing the importance of paying one’s dues. In an interview, he noted the long-standing culture within the show where entry-level pay is often viewed as secondary to the prestigious opportunity to be part of the iconic series. His remarks followed Pete Davidson revealing that the starting salary for SNL newcomers is around $3,000 per episode, a figure that underscores the sacrifices made by aspiring comedians.

Thompson highlighted, “It’s pretty notorious that it’s more so about having the job than getting paid for the job. You gotta pay your dues a little bit, yeah.” This sentiment resonates with Jason Sudeikis, who recalled not earning enough to make significant purchases during his tenure on the show. The context emerged amid a star-studded event at the American Museum of Natural History, where many familiar faces from SNL were present, celebrating a shared love for comedy and philanthropy.

The gala was not just an evening of camaraderie among the SNL cast; it was also a fundraising endeavor for the museum’s educational initiatives. Hosted by Colin Jost, the event featured a lively auction that included a unique opportunity for attendees to bid on a night with Neil deGrasse Tyson or exclusive tickets to an SNL show, with the latter fetching an astonishing $100,000. As the night unfolded under the majestic blue whale installation, guests were treated to a performance by Arcade Fire, whose melodies reverberated through the hall, energizing attendees who danced and celebrated beneath the cosmos.

The commentary from Kenan Thompson reflects a well-known aspect of working at SNL: the notion that prestige and experience often outweigh immediate financial gain. As a cornerstone of late-night television since its inception in 1975, SNL has cultivated a unique culture where aspiring comedians view the opportunity to perform on its stage as invaluable. This culture continues to impact the experiences of new cast members, illustrating a challenging yet rewarding path in comedy. Notable alumni like Pete Davidson and Jason Sudeikis serve as examples of how initial monetary sacrifices can lead to significant career advancements.

In conclusion, Kenan Thompson’s insights into the challenges faced by new SNL cast members reveal a broader narrative about the sacrifices inherent in artistic careers. While the starting salary may seem modest, the love for the craft and the opportunity to perform on a legendary platform often take precedence. The evening at the American Museum of Natural History encapsulated this ethos, merging celebration with support for important educational initiatives, proving that in the world of entertainment, camaraderie, and community often shine brighter than financial gain.

Original Source: variety.com

Leo Nguyen is a seasoned journalist with a decade of experience covering economics and environmental issues. After graduating from the University of Michigan, he began his career in business reporting and has since broadened his focus to include environmental sustainability. Leo's compelling narratives and expert insights have established him as a trusted voice in the realm of contemporary journalism.

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