Saturday Night Live cSNLc has a long history of celebrity impersonations, but not every star takes it lightly. A recent segment on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen featured several SNL alums sharing their experiences with celebrities they had impersonated on the popular sketch comedy show.
One standout encounter was Laraine Newman's run-in with the iconic Barbra Streisand. Newman revealed that she portrayed Streisand in a satire sketch that mocked the singer's ego and extravagant income. Despite Streisand not having seen the sketch, Newman found herself face-to-face with the legendary singer at a bar mitzvah. Streisand expressed her desire to talk to Newman, but the SNL alum opted to make a hasty exit, confessing, "I didn't wanna talk to her."
Celebrities reacting to their SNL impersonators is not uncommon. Cheri Oteri recalled how Judge Judy was not too pleased with her portrayal and even reached out through Oteri's manager with some feedback. Cecily Strong shared a different experience when Judge Jeanine Pirro tried to connect with her multiple times for lunch, but Strong was too preoccupied to meet up.
Ana Gasteyer reminisced about the positive responses she received from Martha Stewart and Celine Dion for her impersonations, emphasizing their graciousness. Meanwhile, Jo Anne Worley left her a heartfelt voicemail expressing her admiration for Gasteyer's portrayal.
Similarly, Rachel Dratch highlighted her memorable encounter with Calista Flockhart when the actress hosted SNL, giving Dratch the opportunity to perform alongside her impersonation subject.
Reflecting on her experience with the recent SNL biopic Saturday Night, Newman emphasized the fictional nature of the portrayal but expressed her enjoyment of the film. The comedian also shared her deep connection with the late Gilda Radner, expressing her wish for Radner's presence during the show's 50th-anniversary celebrations.
Newman's anecdote sheds light on the complexities of celebrity impersonations and the varying reactions they elicit. These interactions provide a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of comedy and celebrity culture, showcasing both humorous moments and genuine appreciation from the stars themselves.
SNL's enduring legacy is further accentuated by the camaraderie among cast members, both past and present. Newman's shared admiration for her fellow SNL performers underscores the bond that transcends generations on the iconic show.
The episode of Watch What Happens Live served as a nostalgic trip down memory lane for these SNL veterans, offering insights into the dynamics between comedians and the celebrities they portray. As SNL continues to entertain audiences with its sharp satirical humor, the interactions between performers and their subjects add an intriguing layer to the show's rich history of celebrity impersonations.
