Saturday Night Live’s Influence Shines at the Tony Awards

On Sunday, the Tony Awards in New York showcased the enduring influence of the sketch comedy show “Saturday Night Live” (S.N.L.). With Lorne Michaels, the creator of S.N.L., present, along with several notable former stars, the comedy show’s legacy was highlighted amidst Broadway’s biggest night.

The ceremony began with a familiar face for S.N.L. fans. Darrell Hammond, a long-time star of the show from 1995 to 2009 and its current announcer, opened the event. Shortly thereafter, Maya Rudolph, known for her run on S.N.L. from 2000 to 2007, presented the night’s first award. Currently starring as Mary Todd Lincoln in the comedy “Oh, Mary!,” Rudolph presented the award for leading actor in a play to John Lithgow for his work in “Giant.” In a light-hearted moment, she joked with Cole Escola, the creator of “Oh, Mary!,” about the bravery involved in performing for pay.

Throughout the evening, the prominence of S.N.L. alumni continued. Two former cast members, Rachel Dratch and Ana Gasteyer, were not only featured in performances but also competed against one another for the award of featured performance by an actress in a musical. Dratch appeared in the revival of “The Rocky Horror Show,” while Gasteyer was part of “Schmigadoon!” Ultimately, Shoshana Bean from “The Lost Boys” claimed the award.

Rachel Dratch, who was part of S.N.L. from 1999 to 2006, has built a diverse career. Aside from her role in “The Rocky Horror Show,” she was previously nominated in 2022 for her portrayal in the feminist comedy “POTUS.”

The presence of these S.N.L. veterans highlighted the ongoing connection between television and stage performances, illustrating how the skills developed on a sketch comedy show can transition to recognized success in theater.