Review: Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live by Susan Morrison
As someone who grew up binge-watching Saturday Night Live reruns, I was drawn to Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live almost instinctively. This deeply researched biography by Susan Morrison offers both a captivating exploration of Lorne Michaels’ life and an intimate look at the show that shaped American comedy. From the very first page, I felt a rush of nostalgia, remembering the electric energy of live sketches that had audiences in stitches, and it was fascinating to peel back the curtain on the genius behind it all.
Morrison brilliantly toggles between Lorne’s youth and the meticulous preparations for the iconic November 3, 2018 episode, hosted by Jonah Hill. This narrative device not only highlights the show’s ongoing relevance but also showcases the relentless dedication that Lorne and his team put into their craft. Readers are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the writers’ meeting—a chaotic yet exhilarating setting—where sketches are born and shapen. The six-day creative whirlwind leading up to the live broadcast reminded me just how ephemeral and daring the world of live television truly is. Morrison’s recounting allowed me to appreciate the skill and spontaneity required in an industry where the stakes are as high as they come.
One of the standout aspects of this biography is Morrison’s writing style. She combines an accessible tone with intricate details, which kept me captivated throughout the 600+ pages. Her thorough research shines through not only in her recounting of Lorne’s interactions with comedy legends like Gilda Radner, Dan Aykroyd, and Tina Fey, but also in the vivid portrayal of the era that birthed SNL. Morrison arranges facts and personal anecdotes in a way that feels conversational, like sitting down with an old friend excitedly sharing stories from their life. This detailed yet approachable storytelling made the book feel like both a tribute and a revelation.
Notably, Morrison quotes comedian Paula Pell, who remarked, “It’s like Lorne had a hundred children with nine wives.” This metaphor resonated deeply with me, emphasizing the familial ties and collaborative spirit that SNL has fostered across generations. It beautifully captures how Lorne’s visionary talent has created a "tribe" of comedians connected through laughter and creativity.
As I closed the book, I found myself reflecting on the legacy of joy and “healing laughter” that Lorne Michaels has provided through SNL over the decades. It reminded me of how humor not only entertains but also serves as a balm in challenging times. This book will undoubtedly resonate with anyone interested in the entertainment industry, but especially fans of SNL who have followed its evolution over the years.
Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live is more than just a biography; it’s a heartfelt exploration of talent, creativity, and the magic that happens when you dare to be funny. I highly recommend it for your next read—whether you’re a comedy aficionado or simply someone looking for a joyful glimpse behind the curtain of one of television’s most enduring shows.
Thank you to Susan Morrison, Random House, and Netgalley for providing me with this engaging read. You can follow my reviews on my blog at Barb Saffer Reviews.
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