Darrell Hammond, a former Saturday Night Live cast member known for his impersonations, opened up about his struggles and insecurities during his time on the show. He revealed that despite his success on the show, he often felt dissatisfied with his performances and believed he had disgraced himself. Hammond mentioned that the pressure of producing new live episodes every week was a significant factor in his feelings of inadequacy, as the turnaround time left little room for error or preparation.
During his tenure on SNL from 1995 to 2009, Hammond experienced moments of self-doubt and frustration, especially when he had to quickly learn and perform new impressions and characters. He recalled feeling overwhelmed by the degree of difficulty in creating fresh content for the show and the immense pressure of delivering a successful performance on live television. Despite his long-standing success on SNL and his reputation as an accomplished impressionist, Hammond struggled with feelings of inadequacy and disappointment.
Despite his struggles, Hammond held the title of SNL’s longest-serving cast member until he was surpassed by Kenan Thompson, who joined the show in 2003. Hammond returned to SNL in 2014 as the full-time announcer, taking over for the late Don Pardo. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to replace Pardo, whom he admired and respected, and acknowledged the unexpected turn his career had taken. Hammond reflected on the improbable nature of his life and career, noting that while he did not anticipate ending up as the show’s announcer, he found fulfillment in the role.
Hammond’s candid revelations about his time on SNL shed light on the challenges and pressures faced by cast members in creating and performing comedy on a weekly basis. His struggles with self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy despite his success highlight the emotional toll that the entertainment industry can take on performers. By sharing his experiences, Hammond offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes reality of a popular sketch show and the personal struggles that can accompany professional success.
Overall, Hammond’s reflections on his time on SNL provide insight into the complexities of working in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment like a live television show. His honesty about his insecurities and struggles serves as a reminder that even those who appear confident and successful may still grapple with self-doubt and uncertainty. By sharing his story, Hammond encourages others to be open about their own struggles and challenges, acknowledging that success does not always come easily and that personal growth often involves facing and overcoming obstacles.
