Aidy Bryant Reflects on SNL Legacy, Upcoming Indie Spirit Awards Hosting

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Aidy Bryant, the beloved comedian and former cast member of “Saturday Night Live,” recently sat down to reflect on her time at the iconic sketch comedy show. As SNL prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, Bryant shared her thoughts on the comedy institution, her favorite moments, and her upcoming role as host of the Indie Spirit Awards.

“SNL is kind of the most interesting thing that’s ever happened to me, so I’m happy to talk about it,” Bryant said with a laugh during an exclusive interview. She acknowledged that while fans often approach her about her various roles, the show remains a unique and cherished experience in her professional life.

Many viewers have a personal connection to SNL, often expressing excitement over Bryant’s standout sketches like “Dyke and Fats” and “Girlfriends Talk Show.” The latter, in particular, showcased her ability to portray relatable, awkward characters. “I think everyone has their own relationship with the show,” she remarked. Bryant will be among those celebrating SNL’s milestone during a three-hour primetime special set to air on February 16.

The former cast member, who was a key player from 2012 to 2022, will also host the Indie Spirit Awards for the second consecutive year on February 22. Following a warm reception last year, where she delivered a humorous roast, Bryant aims to bring a lighthearted vibe to this year’s ceremony. “I want to create a similar ‘let’s just have fun’ experience again,” she said.

In discussing her transition from SNL to hosting, Bryant noted that her experience there helped her become more comfortable on stage. “In my first couple of years, I was always nervous. As I settled in, I just wanted to perform and have fun,” she explained. Her humorous take on SNL sketches garnered attention, showcasing her unique sense of humor and chemistry with her castmates.

While reminiscing about her time at SNL, Bryant expressed admiration for the technical aspects of live performance. “There’s a lot of technical elements that most people don’t realize play into a good performance,” she added. Encouragement from mentors and peers, like Kenan Thompson, contributed to her growth, helping her to navigate nerves and embrace the spotlight.

As she prepares for her hosting duties, Bryant is committed to staying connected to the SNL legacy. “I always watch. It’s like visiting old friends,” she said. “There are so many people still on the show who I was working with, so I love to communicate and share my appreciation for their work.”

Looking ahead to the future, Bryant expressed hope that iconic sketches like “Dyke and Fats” will stand the test of time. With an eye on upcoming Oscar nominees, she also highlighted indie films, such as “Good One,” that she feels deserve more recognition. “Those are really tender, sweet, and kind of brutal movies that should have gotten more love,” she shared.

Fans can catch Bryant’s full appearance during the SNL 50th Anniversary Special and her hosting of the Indie Spirit Awards, promising an entertaining experience infused with her signature comedic style.