Stephen “Demo” DeMaria, SNL’s legendary carpenter, retires after 50 years of set-building magic.

“Demo” DeMaria: SNL’s Legendary Set Builder Hangs Up His Tools

After half a century crafting the magic behind Saturday Night Live’s iconic sketches, Stephen “Demo” DeMaria is finally calling it quits.

The 87-year-old master carpenter, who’s built every single set since the show’s 1975 debut, just wrapped his final episode during the season 50 finale.

The Carpenter’s Journey Begins

Demo first picked up woodworking tools at just 14 years old, never imagining where his skills would take him.

His SNL adventure kicked off in 1974 when he constructed seating for the studio audience.

This small gig caught Lorne Michaels’ eye, launching a 50-year partnership that would define television history.

Behind the Scenes Magic

Known affectionately as “The Boss of the Carpenters,” Demo’s wild work schedule would make most folks dizzy.

His Thursdays began at 1 AM, receiving fresh design sketches by 2 AM.

He’d then divvy up projects among five teams totaling 50 carpenters who brought each week’s creative vision to life.

From Brooklyn to 30 Rock

The massive sets came together piece by piece at the Brooklyn Navy Yard each Friday.

These carefully crafted elements would then make their journey to the legendary Studio 8H at 30 Rockefeller Plaza just in time for Saturday’s show.

This clockwork precision kept America’s favorite comedy show running smoothly for decades.

Golden Era Memories

Demo’s favorite creations came from SNL’s early days, which he considers the show’s golden period.

He lights up remembering John Belushi’s “Olympia Restaurant” sets and Eddie Murphy’s apartment in “Mister Robinson’s Neighborhood” – classic sketches that still make fans howl with laughter today.

Life After Laughs

What’s next for this carpentry legend? “I got plenty to do,” Demo insists with his characteristic straightforwardness.

He’ll be tending to his self-built Staten Island home and spending quality time with family – including two kids, three grandchildren, and a menagerie of pets and rescue animals.

No Regrets

Looking back on five decades of late nights, tight deadlines, and creative challenges, Demo remains utterly content.

“I wouldn’t change a bit,” he reflects with genuine satisfaction. “In fact, if I go out tomorrow, I’ll still be the happiest guy around.”

Not many can claim such fulfillment after any career.