Big revelation on the future of SNL – Molly Shannon calls Kenan her successor, and fans are excited!
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The Genius Behind SNL
Whenever SNL is talked about, the first name that comes to mind is Lorne Michaels.
This 80-year-old mastermind created the show in 1975 and has been synonymous with SNL’s success ever since.
“It’s his show, his vision,” says Molly Shannon, who entertained us from 1995 to 2001. “No one can take his place. The show will be completely different.”
Shannon, now 60 and last seen in The White Lotus, praises him, saying, “He’s a unique genius. Brilliant. Smart.”
Kenan: Public’s favorite?
But what will happen when Michaels finally retires? Shannon has the answer.
“I love the idea. Kenan is the best — I adore him,” Shannon said of Thompson, who has been laughing since 2003.
“Kenan is so talented. That’s a great idea,” added Shannon, who we remember from her role as Mary Katherine Gallagher — that awkward Catholic school girl who smelled her own stuff and called herself a “superstar.”
Change in the air at Studio 8H
Looks like changes could be coming soon. Thompson himself has dropped a few hints ahead of Season 51.
“You want everybody to stay the same, but you know people can make some decisions in the summer,” the 47-year veteran told Page Six in May.
After 22 seasons, Thompson reflects on his journey: “I don’t want to get in anyone’s way or be the same old boring guy doing the same thing.”
Legacy Continues
As SNL celebrates its 50th year, questions about succession seem natural.
Shannon says Michaels is “irreplaceable,” but her enthusiasm for Thompson shows the show can shine under new leadership.
For now, fans are waiting to see what changes will come to this iconic late-night show that has launched countless careers and created unforgettable cultural moments over five decades.