Damon Wayans Reflects on His Controversial Departure from “Saturday Night Live”
Renowned comedian Damon Wayans recently opened up about his departure from “Saturday Night Live” during Season 11, shedding light on the surprising circumstances that led to his exit. In a candid interview featured in Peacock’s “SNL 50” docuseries, Wayans shared his perspective on the incident that marked the end of his tenure on the beloved sketch comedy show.
Recounting the chain of events that culminated in his departure, Wayans revealed that his frustrations had been mounting throughout the season as he witnessed his sketches consistently being sidelined before reaching the broadcast stage. However, it was a pivotal moment involving a sketch titled “Mr. Monopoly,” in which he starred alongside Jon Lovitz, that ultimately prompted his decision to part ways with the show.
In a bold move that would ultimately change the course of his “SNL” journey, Wayans decided to take matters into his own hands during the performance of “Mr. Monopoly.” Deviating from the planned script, he delivered his lines in a manner that caught his fellow cast members and crew off guard. Reflecting on his mindset at the time, Wayans admitted, “I just did not care,” underscoring his deliberate attempt to provoke a response from the show’s creator and executive producer, Lorne Michaels.
This calculated gamble paid off, as Wayans found himself facing the consequences of his actions shortly after the sketch aired. Michaels, acknowledging the difficulty of the decision, made the call to part ways with the talented comedian, emphasizing that it was a necessary step in maintaining the integrity of the show. Industry insider James Andrew Miller weighed in on the situation, noting that Wayans had breached a fundamental rule by introducing an unexpected twist into the performance.
Despite the abrupt end to his “SNL” tenure, Wayans’s career trajectory took a positive turn following his departure from the show. He went on to achieve widespread acclaim as a comedic actor, notably starring in the groundbreaking series “In Living Color” in the 1990s and the beloved sitcom “My Wife and Kids” in the early 2000s. Additionally, he showcased his versatility in a string of popular ’90s films, including “Major Payne,” “Mo’ Money,” and “The Last Boy Scout.”
Remarkably, the passage of time seemed to have healed any lingering wounds, as Wayans was graciously welcomed back to “SNL” to perform a stand-up set during the closing episode of Season 11. Reflecting on this gesture of goodwill, he expressed gratitude towards Michaels, acknowledging the producer’s belief in his talent and character.
As Damon Wayans’s journey continues to unfold, his experience serves as a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics at play in the world of entertainment. His willingness to take risks, coupled with his unwavering commitment to his craft, has solidified his status as a trailblazer in the
