'SNL': Two new cast members won't help the show's Obama problem

AfroVoltaire Mon, Dec 15, 2008 at 09:13 AM EST

So, I must say to johnny quest earlier that I disagree with him. This case is different from W, or Frost/Nixon, and it is not because I am racist. It is because there is a historical reality that needs to be addressed. Because of the history of racially based bias and discrimination against minorities in this country, talented people of color have a very hard time finding first-grade parts in show-business. So you will forgive me, I hope, for wanting an African-American to portray the first African-American President of the USA. I mean for once that the occasion opens itself so blatantly to hire a talented Black person to portray such a prominent figure... DENIED! We all loved Tina fey as Sarah Palin because it looked, and sounded right. I mean imagine if, let's say, Vivica Fox was cast to portray Sarah Palin. Or for that matter, if Sandra Bullock was cast.

Paul J. Sun, Dec 14, 2008 at 11:35 PM EST

For all of you that have been asking why SNL doesn't just hire Nefetari Spencer, well, they just did. It was her performance as client #2 in "Nora's Hair Salon II" that sealed it.

Cathleen Line Sun, Dec 14, 2008 at 03:26 PM EST

I'm afraid this article suffers from short term memory loss. SNL has a long history of treating women terribly. Don't you remember Janeane Garofalo strongly condemned sexism in the writing staff, calling the atmosphere unbearable for a woman? Moreover, because most of the show's memorable recurring characters have been men, who have delivered most of the memorable punchlines and starred in the most beloved sketches, only 3 of the 24 SNL cast member "Best Of" DVDs are of women. (Gilda Radner, of course, along with Molly Shannon and Cheri Oteri.) Tina Fey was the first female head writer. We can only hope that Fey and Amy Poehler whipped the place into shape, but now that they're gone, this is the time to applaud SNL's decision to hire two new female cast members. Don't make this into a female vs. black thing. We need to celebrate victories when either women or minorities make advancements.

Patrick C. Sun, Dec 14, 2008 at 03:11 PM EST

Shame on you, Entertainment Weekly for posting a story like this. Out of the 116 cast members in the SNL's 32-year history, 36 have been women, and only 20 of them survived more than one season. The fact that 2 talented women, regardless of their skin color, have made it on the show is reason to celebrate.

Cindy Wed, Dec 10, 2008 at 05:30 PM EST

Oops. My bad. I assumed that the SNL comedian that plays Obama is white because of all the uproar. I went to the SNL Web site to find out more about him and found out I was wrong.

Cindy Wed, Dec 10, 2008 at 05:16 PM EST

It is so sad that they are canceling Mad Tv. I know this is not a forum for that, but I love that show much better than SNL. I watched Mad quite often but hardly turned on SNL. I think Tina Fey is a great writer, horrible actress, except when she was playing Palin, that was hilarious.
As far as the race thing goes, it is odd that they don't have much diversity. I think they definitely need to work on it and fix it. As far as a white man playing Obama, I don't have a problem with it. If I was a celebrity and a black actress got my mannerisms down pat and could parody me, I wouldn't care. I think it would be funny. On Mad, Bobby, played McCain. It was hilarious. People should be looking at their creativity and not their skin color.

johnny quest Sun, Dec 7, 2008 at 05:28 PM EST

It sucks that they can't find a black person to accurately portray the prez-elect but I think that caring about the inability to find someone who can do the Obama sketches as well as contribute to the rest of the show is a little racist. Armisan(sp?) does one of the best poli satires I've ever seen and if its such a big deal then be pissed at Ron Howard for finding one of the worst Nixon impersonators ever as well as Oliver Stone for letting that dude play bush cause he didn't look or sound like him either. And if you say that's a different situation then you're the racist for distinguishing a difference since the only physical difference in all of those characters is race.

V Spot Mon, Dec 1, 2008 at 02:24 PM EST

I am extremely disappointed in SNL and their hiring practices when it comes to blacks in general. On Nov. 4th, our country made history by electing our first black president, yet the actor portraying him in sketches on SNL is in blackface! Apparently we haven't come that far. As for the hiring of two white women... I'm happy for them. However, I do find it extremely difficult to believe that they were unable to find a talented, funny black woman especially since I'm a black, female comedy writer. We are out here. And if you'd like a list of people, feel free to contact me. The bottom line is that they didn't want to hire a black woman. We've all talked about diversity on television, but we need to do more than just talk. Let's put some action behind those words. When we look at the world around us, we don't only see one color. So why is that all we see when we turn on the television? America just voted for change, and it would be nice if we actually saw some.

frank smith Sun, Nov 30, 2008 at 12:15 AM EST

What does it matter ? All michaels hires is Jewish People anyway. I dont have anything against Jewish people at all, but the guy is a shallow A-hole. Period.

angela Wed, Nov 26, 2008 at 06:50 PM EST

Nefetari Spencer would of been an excellent choice for SNL. I've seen her in action and she keeps people laughing. You guys are really missing out on a real talent!

A-Lea Tue, Nov 25, 2008 at 11:49 PM EST

Nefetari Spencer is a real talent. She's not a part of the good o'boy/girl circle so she's working one audition at a time and mastering her craft for real. Nefetari's impersonation's are on-point and hysterically funny, i.e. Condi Rice, Fantasia. Her SNL audition was a 10. Lorne its not too late...don't sleep on this fresh new talent.

LeShay Tue, Nov 25, 2008 at 06:51 PM EST

There are several extremely talented Hilarious black women, and I agree Nefetari Spencer is among the elite! I saw her in a sketch show last year, and I literally cried watching her impression of Condoleeza Rice! Tyler Perry Here She Comes!

Alpha Cat is OBama for SNL Mon, Nov 24, 2008 at 04:51 PM EST

“Alpha Cat is the Best OBAMA” impersonator SNL needs to get Alpha Cat as OBAMA.

Let me say it again “Alphacat is Barack OBama”
“Alphacat is Barack OBama”
“Alphacat is Barack OBama”
“Alphacat is Barack OBama”
“Alphacat is Barack OBama”
“Alphacat is Barack OBama”
“Alphacat is Barack OBama”

SNL get on it!

Thomas Fraser Sun, Nov 23, 2008 at 11:38 AM EST

Nefetari Spencer is hilarious! SNL is missing out big time. I think every show has their favorites and back end deals. Thats just the nature of this business. Which is why we (African Americans) need to start shows for ourselves. Cause no one will give us anything. Even when we've earned it. (i.e. Tyler Perry)

Shan Sun, Nov 23, 2008 at 12:59 AM EST

I attended a WGA reading and was in awe of Nefetari Spencer's performance. She has a uniqueness that captures her audience and once you're captured that's it. All one can do is expect are tears and a stomach pain from laughing so hard. I guess SNL isn't ready for increased ratings with Nefetari Spencer.

O Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 06:20 PM EST

First, it is inherently sad when the facts (undisputed) are that SNL has has FAILEd to HIRE diversity candidates, rather Latino, Black or any other culture represented in this socially retarded country. I know very talented and trained sisters, Nefetari Spencer, as one example, who would not only bring inspiring comedy to the mediocre show but she also has the rare and universally appealing quality to engage any audience.

Second, Jon, buy a clue. It is one thing to be ignorant. It is another to be too ignorant to comprehend your lack of historical knowledge, rendering you a subpar intellectual subject and proud of your own stupidity. There would be no voice for justice if there were not injustice.

Margaret Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 02:44 PM EST

I happen to know Nefetari Spencer and to me, it's not even about her stellar Michelle Obama impression. She's got comic timing on par with the best of them. Lorne Michaels: take another look at that audition tape. She's the second coming of Julia Louis-Dreyfus and you'd be lucky to get her now...

LJ Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 02:16 PM EST

For me it's not about race. I googled Nefetari Spencer to see that everyone was talking about. I saw a few of her skits and they were HILARIOUS! I was under my desk at work clutched in a ball in tears. SNL is missing out!

LJ Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 02:11 PM EST

It's amazing how racist and hateful Jon is and he can't even spell. You should definitely refocus your interest and but it towards self improvement. You desperately need it. By the way...I'm white. I know that your rebuttal, if any would be race inspired.

Karina J Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 11:01 AM EST

SNL had the perfect cast member audition for them not too long ago..her name is Nefetari Spencer. She is well-rounded and hilarious. Come on Lorne, let's think outside the white box.

Val King Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 09:07 AM EST

Why is Obama off limits? If done tatefully it would be GREAT. I know the perfect lady to portray Michelle. In fact, SNL auditioned her. Her name is Nefetari Spencer. Why not give her a call and get the Obamas on SNL. PS She is a real African Amereican!!!!

Jim B Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 03:11 AM EST

SNL should take a serious look at Pete Peterkin. He's the BEST Obama impersonator, plus he does a ton of other celebs and musical personalities.
http://www.youtube.com/petepeterkin

Wil Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 03:03 AM EST

I've seen Nefetari Spencer in many sketches and she's good. She even plays a 'white woman' really well, very convincing, and extremely hilarious! I guess SNL don't want 'change'!

Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 03:02 AM EST

I've seen Nefetari Spencer in many sketches and she's good. She even plays a 'white woman' really well, very convincing, and extremely hilarious! I guess SNL don't want 'change'!

elissa Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 02:25 AM EST

I've seen Nefetari Spencer also and I think she's brilliant!! Obama aside... there's more need for diversity than just playing Michelle Obama (although she would be perfect for it)! SNL needs to start thinking out of the box. They're starting to get stale and need to inject some new ideas and fresh blood...

CaliKoko Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 01:10 AM EST

This is interesting. I know Nef Spencer and I have to say she is positively hilarious. All of her skits on youtube have me dying. Its a shame they did not choose here. Race aside she is just plain funny as hell!

Justice Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 01:10 AM EST

'Jon' is very angry. It is not a matter of 'running white people off the show' its more about 'ADDING SOME COLOR' to the show. As stated in the article it has been on the air for more than 30 years and has had less than 5 FEMALE comics of COLOR during this 33 year run. Is SNL afraid of female comics, no? We have Molly Shannon and Cheri Oteri (one of my personal favorites) proving female comics are welcome. However, female comics of COLOR, not so much. I know there are MANY female comics who could and SHOULD grace the stage at Studio 8H.

Nefetari Spencer, a Chicago Native, female, BLACK comic , SNL hopeful in August 2008. She's freaking hilarious!!

ChicagoGirl Sat, Nov 22, 2008 at 12:22 AM EST

nefetari spencer does an awesome michelle obama impression among others. she was the only african american woman who got lorne's attention this year and tested for the show in august. i guess they figured bringing maya rudolph back was the right move.

jon Thu, Nov 20, 2008 at 08:50 PM EST

So what if SNL is dominated by white men it's theres they can do what they want with it. Let me guess you want to take Over SNL & run the white men & white women off of it. So then you can fill it with all racist blacks to run all the white women off it. Yeah I don't see many Asian, Russian, English or African people treating black people even close to us in America. No let me guess you want it all. Also when you see Obama isn't going to be able to buy you a ten million dollar house or even help you much at all then you will say he's to white. Or what if some of the black people in certain states get housing then you will turn in those people. This stuff isn't about race because whites turn on whites blacks turn on blacks for religion, money & anything they can use to get to what they think is the top. This wasn't directed at the good black people that don't try to blame white people & ungreatful that they aren't starving to death by there own goverment or shot everyday.

jon Thu, Nov 20, 2008 at 08:37 PM EST

You people are sick that say you wont watch something because it doesn't have enouph black people in it. Yeah white people & other races are really seeing your true colors of this racist garbage. If a tv show has all whites then leave them alone & go start your own show but no you want to be jelouse & feel so bad about your self that you have to blame white people. Well I hate to tell you those people you are talking about are mostly Jewish & just because they have light skin & have money you want to call them white this white that. I guess you say Arabic people are white to. The same Arabic people that would cut your head off for coming to there country for trying to say there are racist against blacks. They had black slaves in Iran & white ones, There were white slaves in Africa. No but you ignorant ones that keep on using this stuff to ruin America. I have tons of black friends & they are also sick of you people saying this & trying to hijack the system & make them look bad.

Francisco Ortiz Thu, Nov 20, 2008 at 11:37 AM EST

Well it is clear that Obama and his wife are so proper and well mannered that there is not much to create satire with. To me a small price to pay for having competent people in the white house.
So Sorry SNL you will have to say goodbye to Bush jokes and Sarah Pallin jokes and have to create new stuff.
As far as the new cast members...I am surprised they did not get at least 1 blonde girl.
Yes SNL never really hires African American comedians...but hey that is why I watch MAD TV.
Good Luck Amy Poehler being a MOM, wish you the best.

Kai Thu, Nov 20, 2008 at 03:39 AM EST

I fully agree with Alynda Wheat, the show's lack of diversity is a disgrace! Its part of why i don't watch anymore. As a woman of color, I might as well watch something else that's actually funny than their tired sketches. And yes, all you crazy posters full of hostility, the pink elephant in the room is that Armisted's Obama is awful. There, I said it.

gail0505 Tue, Nov 18, 2008 at 11:56 PM EST

Wow! Everybody is so uptight about who SNL picked for their new cast members. Yes, they MUST have a black female, a black male, an Oriental female, an Oriental male, etc. Oh sorry, I left out Latinos! (Or should I say "Hispanics"?). After all, it's quotas that will make the show funny. By the way, does BET hire any white people? Does anybody care? Does anybody actually watch BET?

ken Mon, Nov 17, 2008 at 10:10 PM EST

regarding fred amisen (?), one i think he's impersonation of obama is hysterical.... two, he's part latin and part asian, so i think it's cool he's impersonating a man who's part black and part one so dead on.

John Mon, Nov 17, 2008 at 10:59 AM EST

I didn't see last night, but who could have predicted how amazing Kristin Wiig turned out? I have faith.

John Mon, Nov 17, 2008 at 10:46 AM EST

I don't think that the writer is stating that SNL is inherently "racist". They could be just very narrow in there thinking on who to cast on the show. We all have certain biases that causes us to choose who we have as friends or who we date or who we hire on a job. Sometimes we (or someone else like the writer) have to consciously shake up our thought patterns to think outside the box.

Graham Root Mon, Nov 17, 2008 at 03:36 AM EST

I'm wondering how you think SNL is (as your suggesting) racist? And if they hire white people it wont be funny? It really doesnt matter and you are putting things in terms that Barack Obama himself would denounce.

Mindy Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 09:31 PM EST

I don't see the need to hire a black man for the sole purpose of portraying Obama, especially when Fred Armisen does such a dead-on impression of the President-Elect. SNL needed another woman or two after losing Amy.

Willow Ufgood Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 05:49 PM EST

MadTV is canceled. SNL, you need to nab Keegan Michael Key from MadTV. He does a great Obama.

Leila Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 05:35 PM EST

I personally haven't seen either of these ladies in action before, but I'm not optimistic that they'll be able to pull of what Amy Poehler, Rachel Dratch, Maya Rudolph, Tina Fey, etc., most of the ladies from the 2000's till now, have been able to. It'll be a very tough act to follow, and especially with Amy recently leaving and having her absence felt so much on the show these past couple episodes.

NewsG Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 05:13 PM EST

Oh please -- O does funny stuff all the time: saying we have "57 states," the wacky bad dancing on Ellen, the sudden, out of nowhere "downhome" and/or "overtly African American" accents, talking about puppies instead of issues... on and on and on. But no one is willing to go after him, and that's why it's not funny. Being timid is really funny, especially on these kinds of shows.

It's probably just too soon. Give it time. And don't srop your principles just because there's a new pres -- if you think there should be more black comedians on SNL, stick with it.

megr Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 03:23 PM EST

I think armisen's obama impersonation is really good. obama's just not a funny guy to riff on.

adamsam Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 12:15 PM EST

snl sucks now that the election is over. and anyone notice that their cast doesn't reflect the rest of the country? seriously, is this a joke?

Jamie Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 04:37 AM EST

SNL's hiring choices are the exact reason why this show has been suffering for years: it isn't making any effort to grow its audience. In a country where the Latino population is fast outpacing any other group, you would think that SNL would have at least one person of Hispanic heritage. And when you have to get a white actor to perform in blackface, you know you're scraping the bottle of the barrel in terms of diversity.

Now that the Election--something we ALL cared about--has passsed, I guess SNL is getting back to business as usual. It's a shame that they squandered the opportunity to bring someone with a new perspective to round out the cast. How amazing would it have been if one of the new cast women were Asian?

This isn't a 'black' thing. Television needs diversity because it's a reflection of the world we're living in. People wonder why television audiences are tuning out... we have better things to do than watch the self mastubatory, ramblings of 12 or 13 white mens' egos.

ElectAPromQueen (it didn't happen) Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 04:31 AM EST

Perhaps SNL believes Armison IS Obama and he'll find his groove and hit the chord one day with SNL audience and O supporters. Am I the only person who likes Armison as Obama? Mind you, I am African American... I think Armison hits the nail on some of Obama's subtle mannerisms. I don't want a new comic to come in impersonating Obama way over the top. Give Armison a break.
Secondly, yes SNL needs to diversify the talent lineup. There are plenty of talented AA and hispanic comics around. Why not add Romy Malco, Nick Cannon (he's great with impersonations on his MTV improv show), or Patrice O'Neal? She's not black, but the show would improve by 60% if they added Kristen Schaal (Mel from Flight of the Conchords), I can envision SNL camp grooming her into the next Gilda Radner or Betty White. She reminds of a younger spunkier Betty White...

Ben Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 02:08 AM EST

SNL actually did quite well with Murphy - try something a little more factual for support next time. Ever heard of Garret Morris?

MemphisBen Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 02:06 AM EST

you wrote "seems determined to sit this administration out"

IT HASN'T STARTED YET!!!!

Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 12:38 AM EST

there is no material for barack or michelle- they are simply articulate, intelligent people, whereas there has been a lot of room for parody with previous presidents, there just isn't anything there, so there's no reason to hire a new maya rudolph JUST to play michelle...

Sun, Nov 16, 2008 at 12:35 AM EST

I agree- they need more black people. However, as long as these two women aren't "Casey Wilsons" as I'd like to put it (aka really sucky), then we're in good shape. I don't see why SNL needs to have Obama/Michelle sketches just because he's president- I don't think there is any material there. All I have to say is that Jason better stop playing Biden- he sucks BALLS!

tracy Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 11:37 PM EST

Check out the Alphacat you tube impressions of Obama. He nails it. SNL should be talking to him. Better than the two mentioned in this thread imo.

http://www.youtube.com/alphacat

ryan Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 11:36 PM EST

there is so many funny character black actors out there and yet SNL can't find a place for them? look at chris rock. they even denied dave chappelle when tried out and he's one of the best sketch writers and actors ever. you would think lorne and SNL writers would catch up w/ the times.

Tad Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 11:03 PM EST

Are you kidding? Armisen is doing an excellent job with the Obama role.

Jeffrey Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 10:39 PM EST

I just went and found that Obama variety show sketch, and the Kenan Wright thing was the only truly funny thing in it, and I was crying laughing again. The rest of it was not funny, because Fred Armisen does not do a Barack Obama impression, at all. He just says wacky things that maybe someone would like to hear Obama say, or it would be funny if Obama said it, but he doesn't act or sound anything like him. And still, Obama's not funny. Palin's funny, McCain, Clinton, Bush, even Biden...not Obama.

Jeffrey Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 10:27 PM EST

Isn't the real problem, um...that Obama doesn't do anything funny? He's not funny. He's not trying to be funny, he's not stupid or rednecky, he doesn't accidentally say the wrong thing, he's not funny. Anyone doing him will be like Amy Poehler doing Hillary...she didn't act or sound anything like Hillary, or even try. She only things that would be shocking if Hillary said it, not the same as a good impression. Anyway, no, Kenan's not funny, but on that Obama variety show, when he did Wright singing "White devils be crazy!" ala Gnarls Barkley, don't tell me you weren't laughing. Okay, it wasn't Kenan exactly, it was the writer who found only 4 little words to lampoon Gnarls, Wright, and Ayers by having him just plink at the piano in his nightgown, but I watched it several times and was rolling. Kenan's half-smile made it even better.

eg Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 10:15 PM EST

Fred A. can be a great impersonator. His Barney Frank was one of the best ever. i wonder if he is a little race focused when doing Obama like a lot of the other comedians who found it hard to make fun of Obama during the campaign. One of the best reasons to have a black impersonator do Obama is that it has been the Black comedians who have been the most honest (and funny) in their comments about Obama, because they are not worried about being tagged "racist."

Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 09:14 PM EST

Does Alynda Wheat actually get paid to write this junk? Much like "Popwatch", SNL is scraping the bottom of the barrel.

Randi Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 09:08 PM EST

Now that "MADtv" has been cancelled, SNL can poach Keegan-Michael Key and have him portray President-elect Barrack Obama. Fred A. does a good job; Keegan-Michael is better.

Axis of Whatever Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 05:57 PM EST

SNL has had several people try George W. Bush, and none of them have been very good (including Will Ferrell). The best Bush routine was Steve Bridges, the guy who did the skits on Leno.

ehhh Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 05:02 PM EST

Here's my theory: SNL has become too much of a white-liberal sketch comedy show that non-white comedians just aren't interested and just don't care for the kind of comedy that's written for that show to audition for it. SNL has taken itself too seriously in the past few years and has devoted too much of its segments to making fun of current political news stories, which barely get any laughs. This is why I enjoy MadTV as stupid as it seems. At least they have sketches that keep me laughing.

Amanda Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 04:38 PM EST

I agree with those who said that if they didn't have anyone play Laura Bush ever, then they may not need someone to play Michelle Obama.

Doug Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 04:18 PM EST

Wyatt Cenac caught the eye of Lorne Michaels with his astute Obama impression on youtube...yet he passed on him.

Jeff Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 01:12 PM EST

I agree with The Imperialist, Fire Seth Meyers! He is far from funny. I don't know he got on Weekend Update. Come on; Chevy Chase, Dennis Miller, Kevin Nealon, Norm MacDonald, Tina Fey, Jimmy Fallon, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler and THEN Seth Meyers? Remember the Seasame Street Song "One of these things is doing its own thing… " and you pick the odd (unfunny) man out. Yeah, that's you Seth. And your brother is not funny either.

I also noticted they have more and moe lame skits interrupting the Weekend Update news, is this to cover up how bad Seth is or just lack of material?

Rimlit Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 12:45 PM EST

PATTI, you sure got some deep-seated issues there LOL

JB Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 11:50 AM EST

and when I said "below" I was referring to PATTI'S POST.

JB Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 11:48 AM EST

I think someone BELOW seems angry,sorry you feel that way, but that is the problem why SNL is wack & not funny & as a result, their ratings suffer. Therefore THEY NEED TO HIRE MORE PEOPLE OF COLOR!! In front the cameras as well as behind them. I agree, Keenan Thompson is not funny but at the same time, look at the material he's given. The skits are out of touch & not funny! They need writers who represent diversity and not just ivy-leagued taught, middle-aged white men who write skits that they only understand. Maya Rudolph is funny but she cannot play every black female role! Fred Armisen playing Obama is really uncomfortable to watch because clearly he doesn't know how to play the role.In entertainment, TRUE black actors must work harder than their white counterparts, so what "breaks" u r referring to? Clearly something is wrong with their casting when they make Thompson or Tracy Morgan dress in drag to play black women or bring Rudolph out of retirement to play Michelle Obama.

ibmoe Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 11:29 AM EST

PATTI- WOW. This is not just about any black people, it's about the black people who happen to be in the White House as of Jan. Would America be as accepting if Eddie Murphy played Jimmy Carter, or if Tim Meadow played Clinton (as was spoofed in one episode after P. Hartman left)? This is about getting the right people for the job, and in this case it happens to be black people.

Micks Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 11:19 AM EST

I didn't even know Maya Rudolph was black until a couple of years ago, and that was just because it was mentioned in an article about her. She looks as white as the rest of the cast, I wouldn't say it doesn't count on a personal level for her, but it didn't count for sketches, as a viewer, I always thought it was weird that they had a white girl playing black characters. And Fred Armison is talented, but he sucks as Obama, they hired Hammond mainly because he could do Clinton, so they should find a funny black guy for Obama. And not Maya Rudolph's brother.

patti Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 10:50 AM EST

How about not worrying about hiring black people. Don't we see enough of them already. Let's just get talented people and quit giving black people a "break" because they are black. They should have to earn it like everybody else. You don't hear Asians or Hispanics whining. Enough already with the black crap!!!!

David Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 10:47 AM EST

Get Deborah Wilson from MadTV!!!

orange Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 10:20 AM EST

Not to mention the fact that Kenan Thompson is TERRIBLE, and has been since his hire.

Happy ! Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 10:14 AM EST

You no what! i think its good to replace amy... i loved her a whole lo and stil do but she needs to have people replace her ... and also the person who said seth meyers isnt funny, he does like 2 sketches a week and yes there are better on the show like the othr female that mostly played with amy and the man who does the snl shorts ,but let me just say that for people to say the show isnt funny i think you should go out ther and try writing scripts for that many people and to fill up an hour and a half a show time! the writers job is EXTREMLY hard and after 30 some odd years ya it gets hard to come up with fresh material! i think that everyone needs to back of the writers, stop blamming the actors, and whatever else is causing peopel to be upset about the show and just ease up let them do your job and you just watch and be patient and yes FUNNY THINGS DO COME ON THE SHOW! so shut up , watch it and enjoy ... we havnt even givin the new actors a chance yet maybe they are hilarious !

The Imperialist Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 09:36 AM EST

Want to fix SNL? Fire Seth Meyers. He's not funny, AND he's the head writer.

raprilc Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 08:29 AM EST

Ohmigod, Aisha Tyler would be perfect on SNL!

Virgil Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 06:52 AM EST

I am a 30 something Hispanic male, I used to watch SNL since I was 12 or 13 and I thought it was really funny. But they have been out of touch for more than 5 years now. That is the last time I saw them until the Palin thing. But now I cant connect with the show anymore. Maybe I am not their demographic, but I dont think its much funny now.

Maxine Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 05:18 AM EST

Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig are the two best cast members right now. That Casey Wilson chick isn't much, so I'm glad they have included two more females on the show. I agree they need to work on getting minorities... there must be some talented comedians out there to choose from. The problem is, SNL's writers tend to be white, New England-bred gratuates that don't know how to write for minorities. So any person of color needs to be prepared to write for themselves or they will be saddled with material that rings false.

GoGo Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 04:38 AM EST

They should bring Finesse Mitchell back. He would make a great Obama.

Becky McCarty Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 03:54 AM EST

God has finally let this universe know that all of mankind will sit at the thrown and my racist white america can just sit and spin on the finger cuz my birdie flys higher than an eagle under Mr. President Obama what fear did your ancestors instill in your brain wash. And may the pride of America portray the Obama family in the most extremest way. Sorry to my most recent preacher Sissel local of Tacoma who threatened his entire congregation to vote against Obama racist pigs will never sit next to their rightous man whos faith in the master of the day of judgement in whoms aid we all seek all praises to my god for placing him in office. Thankyou snl

PazPraSempre Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 03:18 AM EST

Alan: Maya Rudolph doesn't count because she's only half and she's light skinned? Perhaps you watched only half an episode of SNL with Maya Rudolph, because she regularly played black characters. And yes, her half black side effing counts. So what if she's light skinned? Alicia Keys is lighter than her...did you know she's half black?

Matt Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 02:08 AM EST

Jane Curtin as Pat Nixon.
Jane Curtin as Betty Ford.
Jan Hooks as Betty Ford.
Laraine Newman as Rosalynn Carter.
Ann Risley as Rosalynn Carter.
Phil Hartman as Barbra Bush.
Jan Hooks, Anna Gastyer, and Amy Poehler as Hillary Clinton.

It's very strange nobody's played Laura Bush. They had a guy to play her mother in law though...

So I don't see why if good material presents itself for Michelle Obama they'd pass it up.

Matt Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 01:09 AM EST

The root of this is that SNL is still written and directed by ivy league, northeastern white guys. If SNL comes off as out of touch, this is why. I think this is why The Chapelle Show was so amazing. It tapped into the fact that while most of the Comedy Central audience is probably white, they are white kids that now listen to lots of hip-hop. SNL has failed to realize this. They write for a white audience that only pays attention to very white pop culture, and this segment of the population is not only shrinking, but much older now. This show is not dying because it isn't funny, but because it appeals to less and less young people. And to call it relevant again because it gave Sarah Palin air time is overdoing it. The election specials were still politically safe, boring, and ultimately, irrelevant.

Alan of montreal Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 12:58 AM EST

What was great about Mad TV was it's diversity. Now that it's been canceled, perhaps SNL could poach some of the actors from there.

bob Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 11:47 PM EST

i think its odd that SNL has had so few ethnic cast members. There have been black people, but no Asians or Hispanics (i think?)

Ron H. Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 11:35 PM EST

Here's an idea...try recruiting from someplace other than THE GROUNDLINGS. Have you ever been to one of their shows? Safe comedy for middle of the road tourists. I'm sick of seeing their alumni polluting my television set. SNL has an atrocious record with black comedians when they do cast them. I'm sorry but Tracy Morgan, Kenan Thompsan and Maya Rudolph are all painfully unfunny (watch Rudolph's recent return as Michelle Obama for proof of that). Add to that a weak cast of females now that Poehler has wisely chosen to move on. Kristen Wiig? Another GROUNDLINGS reject doing the same tired brand of comedy SNL has been churning out for years. The Palin sketches were funny but you can save yourself 90 minutes of boredom and pain by watching them online. Time for SNL to shorten to 60 minutes or continue to die a slow and painful death.

bean Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 11:19 PM EST

let's not be so pessimistic friends. with poehler out, that only left casey wilson and kristen wiig as people of the female persuasion on the show. we need some more ladies to represent!

Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 10:07 PM EST

I don't particularly think they need someone to play Michelle (how often did we see Laura on SNL?) but I don't think they needed more white people either.

Ceballos Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 10:06 PM EST

I don't think anyone's saying that they should hire a black guy or a black woman or an Asian guy just to have them available to play famous people that happen to be their same ethnicity.

I 100% agree that SNL should hire the absolute funniest people, regardless of race and gender.

The thing no one will ever be able to convince me of is that the list of the funniest people out there is overwhelmingly made up of white guys and breaks down something like this: 85% white guys, 10% women, 5% black guys.

Craig Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 09:50 PM EST

Even if the Obama wasn't going to be our president for the next 4 years, SNL should've hired at least one person of color. I mean, are you telling me they couldn't find any funny Asians, blacks, or hispanics in the entire country?? SNL just did itself a huge disservice.

Alynda Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 09:46 PM EST

Just one thing regarding supposed Affirmative Action: The only reason SNL was able to jump on the topicality of Sarah Palin was that they had someone in the family (if no longer technically on the show) who was funny, could do her voice, and—come on, people—looked like her. Would a black woman have been as convincing as Sarah Palin? Highly doubtful. No one is arguing that every role needs to be color-cast. But let's inject a little common sense here. The very idea that in an election season (when SNL is at its best) they found themselves in an uh-oh moment with regard to one of the presidential contenders is what's truly ludicrous.

Make Me Laugh Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 09:39 PM EST

All SNL really needs is someone to play Joe Biden. I have a feeling Biden is going to provide far more comedic material than will Obama.

fancypants Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 09:08 PM EST

2 white women are the last 2 cast memebers SNL needs. what's the point? it's not like casey wilson is even useful. meh.

Brad in FL Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 07:22 PM EST

Giddy up! 4 more boobs!

Amy Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 06:55 PM EST

While I agree that so far Obama parodies have been a bit of a snoozefest, he's going to be our president for at least the next 4 years, and during that time there will surely be things parady worthy for SNL to cover. But even beyond that, even if Obama wasn't our president, SNL is in dire need of some diversity in its cast - it's a little sad.

I mean U Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 06:46 PM EST

Where is the outrage about all the "black only" shows? Miss Black America? Affirmative action? Why is a choice always a discrimination issue? You make me sick!

Mikey M Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 06:25 PM EST

They look like a couple of Secreataries from the 70's.

rey Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 06:25 PM EST

what is depressing is that chris elliot's DAUGHTER is on the show. DAMN I FEEL OLD.

Alan Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 06:05 PM EST

I like what people are saying about political sketches vs. pop culture sketches. That's why I will miss MAD TV! SNL was much better with political sketches, but MAD TV was much much better with pop culture and movie/TV parodies. That's why it was great to have both on the air... MAD TV were very sharp with pop culture spoofs and I hope that either SNL can move in that vein, or that MAD TV moves to another network.

Dave Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 05:51 PM EST

Basically get rid of everyone except Will Forte and Kristin Wiig.

mikey Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 05:24 PM EST

There are plenty of angles that could be explored to generate comedy around Obama. Hell, SNL and South Park both found ways to make freakin' Al Gore funny (Lockbox, ManBearPig). If you think that "No-Drama Obama" doesn't give you much to work with on his own, then play him straight with the people around him treating him as the Chosen One (Life of Brian reset in the West Wing). Another take would be a dual public/private persona thing like the late Phil Hartman did with Reagan, have Obama be cool and rational in public but secretly be the Radical/Islamic/Socialist/Elitist/Terrorist/Whatever Else the Loony Right tried to scare everyone with. I love the idea of playing with the mother-in-law in the White House, that's basically a ready made sitcom. There are a lot of ways to go that could be funny. They just need good writing and a more convincing performer than Armisen.
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To all the naysayers who tell us we can't laugh at our new president, you tell them....

ia Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 05:14 PM EST

Wow! I just saw the YouTube clip of Christopher Duncan as Barack Obama. SNL needs to get him to do Obama for all their Obama-based skits. Duncan is spot-on as Obama! He's great!

Stephanie T. Fri, Nov 14, 2008 at 05:09 PM EST

OH THAT'S RIGHT!

Yeah I remember now. Sweeney was friggin awesome. Thanks for reminding me.