Lorne Michaels

Lorne Michaels is a highly regarded television producer, writer, and comedian. He is renowned as the creator and executive producer of the sketch comedy show "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), a position he has held since 1975. Before his groundbreaking creation of "SNL," Michaels began his career in television as a writer and performer in the 1960s, working on Canadian shows such as "The Hart" and "Lorne Terrific Hour." His transition to the U.S. opened opportunities for him to write for popular variety shows.

Under Michaels' leadership, "Saturday Night Live" transformed late-night television, integrating sharp satire, topical humor, and live performances. The show has launched the careers of numerous comedy icons, including John Belushi, Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Eddie Murphy, and Will Ferrell. With Michaels' keen talent scouting and adaptability to evolving comedic trends, the show has remained relevant for five decades, entering its 50th season in 2024. In recognition of his work on "SNL," Michaels has received numerous Primetime Emmy Awards, including 21 wins from an unprecedented 106 nominations.

Michaels' influence in the entertainment industry isn't limited to "SNL." His production company, Broadway Video, founded in 1979, has spearheaded hit shows like "30 Rock," "The Kids in the Hall," and "Portlandia," along with films such as "Wayne’s World" and "Mean Girls." Additionally, he has produced the "Late Night" series since 1993 and "The Tonight Show" since 2014. He was key in facilitating "The Tonight Show's" move to New York in early 2014. In 2018, he ventured into theatre, producing the Broadway show "Mean Girls," and his recent project includes working on the "Mean Girls" musical released in 2024.

Michaels' contributions to comedy and television have earned him numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016, the United States's highest civilian honor. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1999 and the Order of Canada in 2002, later receiving a promotion within the order in 2018. He was also awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2004. In 2021, Michaels was honored at the Kennedy Center Honors, and in 2022, he received a Tony Award for Best Play for producing "Leopoldstadt."