In a heartwarming farewell tugging at the emotions of cast, crew, and longtime fans alike, Saturday Night Live is saying goodbye to one of its most iconic behind-the-scenes legends: Stephen ‘Demo’ DeMaria. After an incredible 50-year run building the sets that have brought laughter into millions of homes, Demo is officially hanging up his hammer.
DeMaria has been one of the silent forces behind SNL’s ever-changing world for half a century. From the show’s earliest episodes in the 1970s to today’s viral sketches, he’s helped shape nearly every set you’ve seen — whether it was a fake White House, a cheesy infomercial studio, or a wild nightclub scene. If you’ve laughed at a skit, chances are, Demo helped make it happen.
He started in 1975, when SNL was just finding its footing. Back then, everything was done fast and dirty, with just hours to build elaborate sets between live shows. DeMaria, known for his creativity and speed, quickly became a key figure in the show’s production. Over the years, he became not just a set builder but a mentor, friend, and legend in his own right.
“He’s a rock. He’s been the guy we all count on,” one longtime crew member shared. “There’s never been a problem Demo couldn’t solve.”
The news of his retirement came during the wrap of SNL’s latest season. In a rare and touching moment, the cast and crew gave DeMaria a standing ovation backstage. Some even shed a few tears. Kenan Thompson, who holds the record as SNL’s longest-running cast member, called Demo “the backbone of the show.”
So, what’s next for the man who’s seen it all in Studio 8H? According to Demo, it’s time to slow down — but not stop. “I’ve got a few projects in mind,” he said with a smile. “I want to build for fun now. Maybe even teach. Who knows?”
Fans and coworkers alike are flooding social media with tributes. A few clips have already gone viral, showing Demo at work through the decades — nailing, painting, laughing, and making TV magic.
It’s rare for someone behind the scenes to become a legend, but Stephen ‘Demo’ DeMaria did just that. He didn’t just build sets. He helped build Saturday Night Live into the powerhouse it is today.
As he walks off into a well-earned retirement, one thing is certain — there will never be another Demo.
And now, live from New York, it’s a standing ovation for the man behind the scenes.