Comedy legend Bill Murray has spoken up in defense of Saturday Night Live (SNL), following a wave of online criticism from viewers labeling the iconic sketch comedy show as “lousy.” In a recent interview, Murray, a former SNL cast member and beloved Hollywood star, passionately stood by the current cast and crew, praising their creativity and talent.
“The cast today does stuff that’s just as good as anybody ever did, all the time,” Murray said, addressing the complaints from some fans who argue that SNL has lost its charm. The actor, who was part of the show’s golden era in the late 1970s, emphasized how much effort goes into creating fresh content week after week.
Murray pointed out the challenges the writers and performers face in producing timely comedy in today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world. “When we were doing it, the news cycle wasn’t this crazy. Now they’re keeping up with an overwhelming amount of content and still making people laugh. That’s an achievement in itself,” he noted.
The criticism of SNL has been a recurring theme over the years, with fans often comparing newer seasons to its earlier days when legends like Murray, Eddie Murphy, and Gilda Radner graced the stage. However, Murray believes such comparisons are unfair.
“It’s easy to look back with nostalgia and think things were better. But if you really watch the current sketches, you’ll see the same brilliance, creativity, and even bravery in tackling tough topics,” he added.
Murray’s comments come amidst renewed debate on social media about SNL‘s relevance. Some viewers have accused the show of pandering too much to certain political or cultural agendas, while others argue it’s simply not as funny as it used to be. But Murray dismissed these complaints, suggesting they might be rooted more in nostalgia than in reality.
“These performers are taking risks every week. It’s live television—anything can happen. To keep delivering with that pressure is amazing. I tip my hat to them,” he said.
SNL, now in its 49th season, has seen its fair share of highs and lows. Despite the criticism, it remains a cultural institution and a launchpad for many of Hollywood’s biggest stars. The current cast, including standout performers like Bowen Yang and Chloe Fineman, has been praised for their comedic chops and versatility. Murray’s vote of confidence might just inspire more fans to tune in and give the show another chance.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a casual viewer, Murray’s message is clear: SNL is still worth watching. “If you’re not laughing, maybe you’re not paying attention,” he quipped.