Jesse Eisenberg’s time hosting Saturday Night Live in 2011 continues to haunt him. During a February 10 appearance on Today with Jenna & Friends, Eisenberg candidly reflected on the experience, describing it as one of his major achievements, yet overshadowed by a significant regret. “I think they said it was the best episode they ever did,” he began, but added with a sigh, “I only have bad memories because I did such a dumb thing.” Eisenberg, now 41, recounted his childhood aspiration to write for SNL when he was just 17. After making a packet and securing an agent, he was elated to receive an invitation to host the iconic show ten years later, but his excitement turned into disappointment when he made an unexpected misstep.
The actor admitted to an oversight regarding the show’s format, stating, “I assumed I could write all the sketches. I didn’t know how it works. It turns out, they have writers.” Viewers were surprised to hear him express this realization, as it highlights the unexpected pressure he felt. Eisenberg recounted how he spent the week prior to filming slipping scripts to different actors, not understanding that this was not the conventional process for contributing material. “I didn’t realize that was not the way you do that,” he lamented.
When Jenna Bush Hager, the show’s host, inquired if any of the sketches he wrote made it to air, Eisenberg admitted his approach was misguided. “It was so unbelievably inappropriate and offensive of me that, no,” he stated, underscoring his regret. Amy Poehler, a former SNL cast member, chimed in during the discussion, “You kind of worked too hard. Which is not, you know, if you’re going to go one way, it’s better to go that way than the other way.” Eisenberg humorously responded, “Not according to the people who wrote the show! They wished I went the other way.” This exchange highlighted the complexities of collaboration in such a high-pressure environment.
Eisenberg also claimed he received misguidance from someone who Poehler suggested must have been “obviously an enemy.” He joked about being assured by those individuals that writing his own skits was acceptable, quipping, “It turns out I was sabotaged.” This lighthearted commentary provided a moment of levity amid his regret, but it also hinted at the intense emotions this experience stirred within him.
Additionally, Eisenberg shared memories of working alongside musical guest Nicki Minaj, revealing that they have maintained contact since then. “We text,” he said, jokingly recalling that “she sometimes asks me to introduce her, as you’re supposed to as a host.” This humorous exchange showcased a lighter side of the actor amidst his deeper reflections on his SNL experience. He playfully added that he has pitched the idea of a collaboration with Minaj, once again underlining his tendency to overcommit to his artistic endeavors.
Eisenberg’s recollections serve as a poignant reminder of the unique challenges faced by actors in high-profile roles, especially when blending aspirations with the realities of the entertainment industry. While he acknowledges the setback from his SNL experience, it remains a significant chapter in his career that continues to fuel his passion for writing and performing, setting a stage for future opportunities and collaborations.
