Entertainment
Leslie Jones Reflects on SNL Experience Ahead of New Special
NEW YORK, NY — Leslie Jones, the iconic comedian and actress, shared insights about her time on “Saturday Night Live” during an interview promoting her new comedy special, “Life Part 2.” The special premieres on Friday, October 24, on Peacock.
Jones joined the cast of “SNL” as a writer and performer from 2014 to 2019, making a lasting impact in her five seasons on the show. Recalling her time there, she said, “I was kind of the last Black woman they had when I was there. I knew it was important to represent.”
She discussed significant moments on the show, highlighting segments like “Naked and Afraid: Celebrity Edition” and “Leslie Jones Wants to Play Donald Trump” as personal favorites. Since leaving, she has hosted the Olympics for NBC and various award shows, and gained further recognition for her performances in comedy festivals.
In the candid interview with The Daily Beast, Jones addressed the current absence of Black women from the “SNL” cast, focusing on the challenges in finding suitable candidates. “It does take more effort to find a Black woman cast member, to me, than it does a white woman cast member,” she explained. “Lorne Michaels has a lot of responsibilities. It’s hard to run that show and make everyone laugh.”
Jones noted that she frequently suggests talented Black women to the show’s producers, believing they should take more time to find diverse talent. “There are so many women I could send them, and I do. I go, ‘Hey, look at this girl,’” she said.
Amidst speculation about the future of the show’s lineup, Jones remarked on Ego Nwodim’s departure. “I don’t think they expected Ego to leave,” she said. “I was like, ‘Wait a minute, there’s no Black women on the cast.'” Her prediction hinted at possible changes later in the season.
The interview highlighted the importance of representation in comedy, a topic Jones feels passionately about. With her special launching, she aims to inspire and entertain while advocating for inclusivity in the entertainment industry.
