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Conan O'Brien Remembers the Competition at SNL Feeling 'Grimy' Until Adam Sandler Brought the 'Fun' Back

Conan O'Brien Credits Adam Sandler with Reviving the Spirit of 'Saturday Night Live'

In the ever-evolving world of late-night comedy, few shows have left as indelible a mark on American pop culture as *Saturday Night Live* (SNL). For decades, the sketch comedy powerhouse has been a launchpad for some of the biggest names in entertainment, from Eddie Murphy to Tina Fey. But even icons like SNL have their rough patches, moments when the magic seems to fade and the pressure to perform overshadows the joy of creation. According to former SNL writer and late-night host Conan O'Brien, one comedian single-handedly turned the tide during a particularly challenging era: Adam Sandler. In a recent candid reflection, O'Brien praised Sandler for injecting a much-needed dose of fun back into the show, transforming it from a high-stakes grind into a playground of hilarity.

O'Brien, who cut his teeth as a writer on SNL from 1988 to 1991, has long been vocal about the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the legendary program. Speaking on his podcast, *Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend*, he delved into the atmosphere at 30 Rockefeller Plaza during the late 1980s and early 1990s. At that time, SNL was navigating a transitional period. The golden era of the original cast—think Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, and Gilda Radner—had given way to a new generation, but not without growing pains. Ratings were fluctuating, and the pressure from NBC executives was mounting. O'Brien described the environment as tense, with writers and performers feeling the weight of the show's legacy. "It was a very serious place," O'Brien recalled. "People were working really hard, but it felt like the fun had been sucked out of it."

Enter Adam Sandler in 1990. Fresh-faced and brimming with irreverent energy, Sandler joined the writing staff before quickly transitioning to on-screen performer. His arrival, according to O'Brien, was nothing short of revolutionary. Sandler didn't just contribute sketches; he embodied a carefree, playful spirit that had been missing. "Adam brought the fun back," O'Brien emphasized. "He reminded everyone that this is supposed to be enjoyable. Comedy isn't about perfection—it's about letting loose and having a good time." This sentiment resonates deeply with fans who remember Sandler's early contributions, from his goofy musical numbers to his memorable characters like Opera Man and Canteen Boy.

To understand the full impact, it's worth revisiting the context of SNL in the early '90s. The show was coming off a decade that had seen both highs and lows. The 1980s had introduced stars like Phil Hartman, Dana Carvey, and Jan Hooks, but by the end of the decade, there was a sense of stagnation. Lorne Michaels, the show's creator and executive producer, was constantly tinkering with the formula to keep it fresh. O'Brien, who had been hired after a stint at *The Simpsons*, found himself in a writers' room filled with talented but stressed-out individuals. The competition was fierce—sketches had to be pitched, rewritten, and rehearsed under tight deadlines, often leading to burnout. O'Brien himself has shared stories of all-nighters and the emotional toll of seeing ideas rejected.

Sandler's approach was a breath of fresh air. Unlike some of his more methodically serious colleagues, Sandler infused his work with a childlike enthusiasm. He would strum his guitar in the hallways, improvising silly songs that lightened the mood. O'Brien recounted how Sandler's presence encouraged others to loosen up. "He'd just start goofing around, and suddenly the room would erupt in laughter," O'Brien said. "It was contagious. People started remembering why they got into comedy in the first place." This shift wasn't just anecdotal; it translated to the screen. Sandler's breakout moments, such as his Hanukkah Song or his appearances on Weekend Update, brought a raw, unpolished charm that contrasted with the more polished sketches of the era.

Moreover, Sandler's influence extended to his fellow cast members. The early '90s SNL lineup was a murderers' row of talent: Chris Farley, David Spade, Chris Rock, Rob Schneider, and later, Mike Myers and Julia Sweeney. O'Brien noted that Sandler's fun-loving vibe helped foster camaraderie among this group, often referred to as the "Bad Boys of SNL." Farley's larger-than-life energy paired perfectly with Sandler's slacker persona, leading to iconic sketches like the motivational speaker Matt Foley or the Gap Girls. "Adam was the glue," O'Brien explained. "He made it okay to be silly, to take risks without fear of failure." This era produced some of SNL's most enduring bits, proving that a lighter atmosphere could yield creative gold.

Of course, Sandler's time on SNL wasn't without controversy. In 1995, he was famously fired along with several cast members in a major shakeup orchestrated by Michaels. The decision shocked fans and insiders alike, as Sandler had become a fan favorite. Reflecting on this, O'Brien expressed bewilderment, suggesting that Sandler's unique style might have clashed with the show's evolving direction. "It didn't make sense to a lot of us," he admitted. "Adam was the heart of what made that period special." Sandler's post-SNL career exploded with films like *Billy Madison*, *Happy Gilmore*, and *The Wedding Singer*, cementing his status as a box-office king. Yet, his return to SNL as host in 2019 was a triumphant full-circle moment. During that episode, Sandler performed a heartfelt song about his firing, blending humor with genuine emotion, and even earned an Emmy nomination for his hosting gig.

O'Brien's praise for Sandler goes beyond nostalgia; it highlights a broader lesson about creativity in high-pressure environments. In an industry where burnout is rampant, figures like Sandler serve as reminders that joy is a key ingredient to success. O'Brien, who went on to host *Late Night with Conan O'Brien* and later *Conan* on TBS, has often drawn from his SNL experiences in his own work. His podcast, where this conversation took place, features guests ranging from celebrities to everyday folks, always with a focus on candid, fun discussions. By spotlighting Sandler's role in revitalizing SNL, O'Brien underscores how one person's energy can ripple through an entire team.

Looking back, the early '90s SNL era, bolstered by Sandler's contributions, helped the show regain its footing and pave the way for future stars. It bridged the gap between the original cast's raw edge and the more polished ensembles of the 2000s. Sandler's legacy on the show is evident in the countless comedians who cite him as an influence, from Seth Meyers to Pete Davidson. His ability to blend absurdity with relatability—think of his everyman characters dealing with everyday frustrations—resonated with audiences and set a template for modern sketch comedy.

In today's comedy landscape, where social media and streaming platforms have democratized humor, SNL continues to adapt. Yet, the core principle O'Brien attributes to Sandler remains timeless: fun is fundamental. Without it, even the most talented teams can falter. As O'Brien put it, "Adam didn't just save sketches; he saved the soul of the show." For fans and aspiring comedians alike, this story is a testament to the power of playfulness in the face of pressure.

Sandler himself has remained humble about his SNL days, often joking about his unconventional path. In interviews, he's credited the show with giving him his big break, even as he acknowledges the chaos behind the scenes. His enduring friendship with O'Brien and other alumni speaks to the bonds formed during those formative years. Together, they represent a chapter in SNL's history where fun triumphed over formality, ensuring the show's survival and relevance.

As SNL approaches its 50th season, reflections like O'Brien's offer valuable insights into what keeps the institution alive. It's not just the star power or the viral moments; it's the human element—the laughter shared in writers' rooms and the willingness to embrace the absurd. Adam Sandler's role in bringing that fun back is a chapter worth celebrating, a reminder that sometimes, the best way to innovate is to simply let go and enjoy the ride. In the end, O'Brien's words paint a vivid picture of a comedian who didn't just perform; he transformed the very essence of one of television's greatest treasures. (Word count: 1,056)

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[ https://people.com/conan-o-brien-says-adam-sandler-brought-fun-back-to-saturday-night-live-11781734 ]