The ‘<a href="https://www.archyde.com/miley-cyrus-and-pete-davidson-tell-2021-to-go-to-hell-in-wacky-new-years-eve-special/" title="Miley Cyrus and Pete Davidson Tell 2021 to ‘Go to Hell’ in Wacky New Year’s Eve Special”>SNL‘ Salary Surprise: Cast Members Reveal Their First Big Purchases
What do you do when you suddenly find yourself earning a steady paycheck on one of television’s most iconic shows? For some “Saturday Night Live” alumni and current cast members, the answer involves relatively modest indulgences. In a recent video, several “SNL” stars opened up about their initial splurges after joining the legendary comedy institution, revealing that “big purchases” weren’t exactly on the menu.
Three Grand and a Dinner Plate? Pete Davidson on ‘SNL’ Pay
Pete Davidson, who entertained audiences as a cast member from 2014 to 2022, hilariously set the tone. “Do you guys know what they pay us?” he quipped. “It’s like three grand an episode. I think I got dinner.” His words shed a light on the financial realities of starting out on “SNL,” where the initial compensation may not be as extravagant as one might expect.
Couches, Tears, and a Defiant Cheri Oteri
While a lavish lifestyle might not be immediately attainable, some cast members found solace in comfort—specifically, a good couch. Cheri Oteri, known for her memorable characters and energetic performances, gushed about her cherished couch. Her love for the piece extended to multiple reupholsterings, a testament to its enduring presence in her life. Oteri even shared a story about a designer who tried to convince her to get rid of her beloved couch. “I remember a designer coming over in tears,” she recounted. “‘OK, those arms are too high. We have to get … We’re going to get rid of that couch.’ I said, ‘Oh no. No, you’re not. Not today, Satan. No, the couch is staying. You’re going.'”
Shoe Shopping: From Budget-Friendly to Luxe Gucci
Footwear proved to be another popular splurge category. Current cast member Bowen Yang opted for stylish shoes, while former cast member Julia Louis-Dreyfus confessed to purchasing a pair that slightly stretched her budget. “I bought a pair of shoes that were out of my budget,” she admitted. “I’m going to tell you, they were $75.” However, Yang’s choice leaned toward a more luxurious upgrade: a pair of Gucci shoes.
NYC Rent: The Ultimate “SNL” Splurge?
Jason Sudeikis, who worked behind the scenes as a writer and on-screen as a performer from 2003 to 2013, echoed Davidson’s sentiment about the limited purchasing power of an early “SNL” salary. “I mean, you don’t make enough money to make big purchases,” Sudeikis observed. “So I think New York rent was probably the biggest purchase I made after writing my first year on ‘SNL.’”
For many “SNL” cast members, reaching the peak of television comedy comes hand-in-hand with the realities of life in New York City—a city known for its exorbitant rents.
“Saturday Night Live” is celebrating 50 years of laughter, iconic sketches, and unforgettable characters with a special airing on NBC on February 16.
What other “SNL” cast member, besides Pete Davidson, is mentioned talking about their first significant purchase after joining the show?
## The ‘SNL’ Salary Surprise: Cast Members Reveal Their First Big Purchases
**(Intro Music)**
**Host:** Welcome back to the show! Tonight we’re talking about the surprising financial realities of landing a spot on the iconic “Saturday Night Live.” We’ve all seen these comedy legends grace our screens, but what was their first big purchase after scoring a coveted spot on the cast?
**Interviewer:** Joining us to break down these revelations is entertainment journalist, Sarah Jones. Sarah, thanks for joining us.
**Sarah Jones:** My pleasure! This new tidbit from “SNL” stars has everyone talking. It seems even comedy royalty starts out modestly.
**Host:** Absolutely! Take Pete Davidson, for example [ [1](https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/pete-davidson-reveals-much-snl-191946678.html) ]. When asked what he did with his first paycheck, he jokingly said, “I think I got dinner.”
**Sarah Jones:** Right! And that’s pretty fascinating because people assume “SNL” is an instant ticket to riches. Apparently, it doesn’t quite happen overnight. It’s a testament to their talent and work ethic, working their way up.
**Host:** And it wasn’t just Pete. We also heard from Cheri Oteri, a fan favorite, who became emotional remembering buying her first couch after joining the show.
**Sarah Jones:** Exactly! For some, it’s about those small, meaningful purchases that represent stability and comfort during a demanding time. It’s relatable, even inspiring, to see these stars prioritize practicality over extravagance initially.
**Host:** It’s a great reminder that even in the world of entertainment, starting out can mean budgeting and making smart choices.
**Sarah Jones:** Definitely! It’s a refreshing change from the often glamorized image of celebrity life.
**Host:** Sarah Jones, thank you so much for sharing your insights on this.
**Sarah Jones:** My pleasure, it was great to be here!
**(Outro Music)**
