[twirlip]

I think of Lorne Michaels holds a similar place in culture as did Hugh Hefner. SNL was highly influential, but has been coasting on eroding cultural relevance since the internet became more interesting than broadcast television. Comics are discovering they don't need an impresario or producer as they did in the more rarefied entertainment environment of the past.

[hn_throwaway_99]

> Comics are discovering they don't need an impresario or producer as they did in the more rarefied entertainment environment of the past.

Are they? I highly doubt it. I disagreed with a ton of stuff in this article, but I think the points it made about the comedy business are pretty spot on: hardly anyone can make an actual living in comedy, and getting your big break on SNL is still one of surest ways to be able to make a living (and then some) in comedy.

It's not the only way (and the article concedes as much), but the legions of people posting comedy web series or doing stand-up in local clubs definitely have day jobs, and tons (most?) of these people still dream about getting on SNL someday.

[jjfoooo4]

He’s an extremely prolific producer. I happened to watch The Other Two and Detroiters the other day, both produced by him. Tim Robinson from Detroiters went on to make I Think You Should Leave

[whoevencares]

But SNL and Lorne are not synonymous - his reach has extended far beyond that show.