Jennifer Coolidge Says She 'Tried My A-- Off' to Get on 'Saturday Night Live' : 'What a Feat'

Mar. 15, 2025

Photo: Cindy Ord/FilmMagic

Jennifer Coolidgeonce tried to join the cast ofSaturday Night Live— and that dreamsort ofjust became a reality.

StarChloe Finemanexpertly impersonated theWhite Lotusstar in a sketch that aired during Saturday’s Christmas episode. The following day, Coolidge, 61, applauded Fineman’s portrayal, calling her “exceptionally brilliant.”

“Wow!” she tweeted. “A massive thanks to @NBCSNL!!”

It was then that Coolidge revealed she previously attempted to be a cast member earlier in her career. “Also, congrats to the new cast members!! I know how hard it is to get on that show,” she said.

“I tried my ass off to be one but you actually made it!! What a feat!” she added. “Happy holidays to you all!!”

Even thoughSNLdidn’t work out for her, Coolidge still has had a long and successful acting career. She recentlybecame a first-time Emmy winnerfor her efforts onThe White Lotus, for which she alsojust received a Golden Globe nomination. She’s also had an extensive movie career with roles inAmerican Pie,Promising Young Womanand more.

SNLcreatorLorne Michaelspreviously said the NBC series is in a “transition year.” Seven cast members left the series between May and September, leaving many new openings for a new generation of comedians to take over the show.

Strong is just the latest in this transitional wave to leave the series — though she’s the first to leave mid-season.

SNL’smass exodusbegan in May with the departures ofKate McKinnon,Aidy Bryant,Kyle MooneyandPete Davidson. They all said bid barewell during theseason 47 finale.

Will Heath/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty

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PEOPLE confirmedon Sept. 1 that three additionalSNLcast members — comediansMelissa VillaseñorandAlex Moffat, as well as featured playerAristotle Athari— would not be returning for season 48.

Additionally,SNLlost Talent ChiefLindsay Shookus, who announced her exit from the series in August.

Saturday Night Livewill return with new episodes in 2023.

source: people.com