Justin Timberlake, Shane Gillis, and Pete Davidson spill on SNL’s shockingly low paychecks—and why they still say yes.
Why Do Celebrities Host SNL for Just $5K?
Stars from Travis Kelce to Emma Stone gush about hosting SNL as a “bucket list” honor—but the paycheck hasn’t budged since 2009.
Justin Timberlake called his $5,000 fee “the best five grand you can make on TV”, while Shane Gillis confirmed in 2024: “Still $5k, baby.”
For comparison, cast newbies like Pete Davidson earned $3k/episode (“I bought dinner”).
Did Lorne Michaels Try to Reunite The Beatles for $3K?
In 1976, Michaels aired a plea offering The Beatles $3k to reunite on SNL. When ignored, he upped it to $3,200 live: “That’s $50 extra each… even Ringo.”
George Harrison later joked about the offer during his solo guest spot. Michaels’ absurd bid? Proof SNL’s clout > cash.
How Much Do SNL Cast Members Really Earn?
Salaries vary wildly. Keenan Thompson, the show’s longest-tenured star, hinted: “You pay dues first.”
Ex-writer Jason Sudeikis spent early checks on NYC rent; Sarah Silverman splurged on a $300 sweater.
Alec Baldwin, meanwhile, nabbed $1,400 per Trump cameo—peanuts compared to his 30 Rock residuals.
What’s the Price of SNL Fame?
Forget Lamborghinis—SNL’s paychecks fund humble wins. Julia Louis-Dreyfus bought “$75 shoes I couldn’t afford before.”
Davidson’s big post-paycheck flex? A meal. Yet Thompson admits, “It’s about the job, not the money.” Michaels’ original 1975 cast? $750/show… and offices doubling as crash pads.
Why Do A-Listers Keep Taking the Gig?
SNL’s currency isn’t cash—it’s cultural cachet. Timberlake, Stone, and Kelce all framed hosting as a career milestone. Michaels built a legacy where even a $5k check screams, “You’ve made it.”
As Baldwin proved, repeated roles (18 hosting gigs!) cement icons—no fat paycheck required.
Quick Facts About SNL Salaries:
- Flat Rate: Hosts like Gillis/Stone have earned ~$5k since 2009.
- Cast Pay: Start at $3k/episode (Davidson), rising with tenure.
- Beatles Bid: Michaels offered $3,200 for a 1976 reunion.
- Trump Cameos: Baldwin made $1,400 per appearance.
- Legacy > Cash: Thompson calls the gig a “dues-paying” rite.