Taking it Back to the Beginning: ‘SNL’ Stars Recall Their First Paychecks
Pete Davidson recently threw it back to his early days at Studio 8H, revealing exactly how much he earned per episode on “Saturday Night Live” in a candid Instagram video.
“Do you guys know what they pay us? It’s like three grand an episode, so I think I got dinner,” Davidson admitted with a laugh.
From “Weekend Update” to… Dinner?
Davidson, who became a fan favorite earning laughs with iconic sketches like “Chad,” “Rap Roundtable,” and “Jasmine and Aladdin,” joined the esteemed cast in 2014 and made his final bow in 2022. He wasn’t the only “SNL” alum to reminisce fondly (and hilariously) about their first paychecks.
Big Purchases and Humble Beginnings
“I mean you don’t really make enough money to make big purchases,” Jason Sudeikis, who spent time both in front of and behind the camera as a cast member and writer, shared. “So, I think New York rent was probably the biggest purchase I made after writing on ‘SNL’ the first year.”
Rachel Dratch agreed, “Apartment rent! That’s what mine went to.”
Turns out, many of their peers from the famed sketch show felt the same way. James Austin Johnson, Sarah Sherman, Seth Meyers, and Cheri Oteri all frankely confessed i tre atured – namely furniture.
“A couch,” Oteri, who brought her distinctive comedic charm to the show from 1995 to 2000, shared. “I have gotten it reupholstered three or four times. I remember a designer coming over in tears and he goes, ‘Oh, those arms are too high. We’re going to get rid of that couch.’ I said, ‘Oh no. No, you’re not. Not today, Satan! The couch is staying, you’re going.’”
It seems like a sensible choice; everyone needs a place to relax once they’re done killing it on national television, right?_
Splurging on (Mostly) Practical Necessities
And what about those who felt like treating themselves after their first paycheck?
“I bought a pair of shoes that were out of my budget,” Julia Louis-Dreyfus revealed with a chuckle. “I’ve got to tell you, I think they were $75.”
Bowen Yang opted for a bit more luxury, admitting, “Going to Saks across the street buying a pair of Gucci shoes. The kind that everyone got, and the kind that I wouldn’t feel super cool wearing out now.”
How much did Pete Davidson make per episode on his first season of “Saturday Night Live?”
## Taking it Back to the Beginning: ‘SNL’ Stars Recall Their First Paychecks
**[Host]**: Welcome back! What did you think of Pete Davidson’s recent Instagram revelation about his “SNL” salary? We’re going deeper into the world of legendary “SNL” paychecks with comedy writer and pop culture expert, Sarah Jones. Sarah, thanks for joining us!
**[Sarah Jones]**: Thanks for having me! It’s always fascinating to see behind the curtain of such an iconic show.
**[Host]:** Pete Davidson said his first paycheck was essentially enough for “dinner”! What do you make of that, considering the show’s success and the caliber of talent on “SNL”?
**[Sarah Jones]**: Well, while $3,000 an episode might not seem like much for a show as huge as “SNL,” remember, these are starting salaries. Plus, the real payoff often comes from the exposure and opportunities that come with being on the show. Think of it as a launching pad for bigger and better things.
**[Host]**: Absolutely!
Is there any truth to the idea that cast members receive different rates?
**[Sarah Jones]**: It wouldn’t surprise me! Seniority, recurring characters, and writer contributions could all factor into pay. Remember, Davidson became a breakout star with iconic characters like “Chad,” which likely influenced his earning power over time.
**[Host]** : So, dinner might turn into something considerably fancier after a few seasons, maybe?
**[Sarah Jones]**: [Laughs] It just goes to show you, even the biggest stars start somewhere. It’s inspiring to see how “SNL” alumni like Davidson use their platform to share these funny and relatable anecdotes. It reminds us that behind the glamor, there’s a lot of hard work and hustle involved.
**[Host]**: Great insights, Sarah! Thanks for your time today.
**[Sarah Jones]**: My pleasure.
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