The 'Only Murders in the Building' star's brief stint on the hit NBC comedy show was marked by constant fear, but a contractual obligation kept him on the show until Christmas.
- December 21, 2024
AceShowbiz - Despite making an impact on "Saturday Night Live" during his short tenure, Martin Short was plagued by anxiety throughout his time on the show. The 3-time Golden Globe nominee recently revealed that he was "terrified every show" as a cast member in season 10 from 1984 to 1985.
Short explained that he initially signed a one-year contract due to a "very weird year" following the departures of Eddie Murphy and Joe Piscopo. Amidst fears that "SNL" would be canceled, Short was offered a unique deal by the show's then-executive producer; stay until Christmas, and he would be released from his contract.
Short recalled trying to quit four shows in, but Ebersol reminded him of their agreement. Being "savvy," Short negotiated to remain until the season finale in April 1985, by which time he had "figured out how to do the show."
Although nerve-wracking for Short, his time on "SNL" was significant. He revived characters like Ed Grimley from his previous work on "Second City Television" and has returned to the show as a host on several occasions.
Short is set to return to Studio 8H this weekend as the host, replacing his "Only Murders in the Building" co-star Steve Martin, who is currently preoccupied with Christmas preparations.
