Will Forte on his infamous ‘SNL’ audition is a story that comedy fans can’t get enough of—especially now, as the latest real-time news and behind-the-scenes interviews bring fresh details to light. In a recent appearance on Pablo Torre’s podcast and as part of the SNL 50th anniversary celebrations, Forte has peeled back the curtain on what really happened during that fateful tryout, revealing nerves, unexpected choices, and the moment he almost walked away.
Forte’s journey to Saturday Night Live was anything but straightforward. Already a writer for That ‘70s Show with newfound job security, he was reluctant to audition for SNL at all. But Lorne Michaels, the show’s legendary creator, convinced him to give it a shot. What happened next is now the stuff of SNL legend: Forte’s audition was so original and hilarious that it left veteran writers like Mike Schur in stitches, calling it one of the funniest auditions ever seen in front of Michaels.
The Audition That Almost Didn’t Happen
Will Forte nearly skipped his SNL audition entirely. He had just secured a contract extension on That ‘70s Show, a rare moment of stability in the volatile world of TV comedy. The idea of auditioning for SNL terrified him—so much so that he initially refused. It took encouragement from both his sitcom bosses and Lorne Michaels himself to get him into the audition room.
Once there, Forte unleashed a set of characters and impressions that would become iconic. He performed as Tim Calhoun, a whisper-quiet presidential candidate who would later appear on the show, and a speed reader—another bit that made it to air. He also tried his hand (with self-deprecating humor) at impersonations of Michael McDonald and Martin Sheen, both of which he admits were “very bad.” But it was his final, raunchy Groundlings-era character—a gold-painted street performer—that truly stood out, even if it was too edgy for SNL’s standards.
Forte’s willingness to take risks and embrace the absurd is what set his audition apart. He ended the session with an apology for the raunchiness, but it didn’t matter—he had already made a lasting impression. The combination of nerves, originality, and sheer comedic bravery made his tryout unforgettable.
The Impact and Legacy of Will Forte’s Infamous SNL Audition
Will Forte’s infamous SNL audition didn’t just land him a spot on the show—it set the stage for an eight-season run filled with bizarre, beloved characters. From MacGruber, who became a cult favorite and inspired a movie and streaming series, to his unique take on George W. Bush (despite his initial discomfort), Forte became known for pushing boundaries and making audiences laugh in unexpected ways.
The audition’s influence is still felt today. As SNL celebrates its 50th anniversary, rare footage of Forte’s tryout has resurfaced in special promos, reminding fans of the show’s rich history and the unpredictable magic that happens behind the scenes. Forte’s story is also featured in the Peacock docuseries “Beyond Saturday Night,” which dives deep into the audition process and the nerves that even future legends face.
Here are a few standout moments from Will Forte’s SNL audition and early career:
- Tim Calhoun: The soft-spoken presidential candidate became a recurring character, showcasing Forte’s knack for understated, absurd humor.
- Speed Reader: Another audition bit that made it to air, proving Forte’s versatility and originality.
- Michael McDonald and Martin Sheen Impressions: While he jokes about their quality, these attempts showed his willingness to try anything for a laugh.
- Gold-Painted Street Performer: The raunchy, over-the-top finale that left the room in shock and laughter.
Will Forte’s Continued Influence and Latest Projects
Will Forte’s career has only grown since his SNL days. He created and starred in the acclaimed sitcom The Last Man on Earth, earning multiple Emmy nominations. He’s also found success in voice acting, with roles in Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, The Lego Movie, and the animated series Clone High. Most recently, he’s teamed up with Tina Fey for the Netflix series “The Four Seasons,” further cementing his reputation as a comedic force.
Despite his success, Forte remains humble about his journey. He credits his SNL audition—and the terror he felt—with pushing him to new creative heights. The experience taught him to embrace discomfort and trust his instincts, lessons that continue to shape his work today.
Why Will Forte’s Infamous SNL Audition Still Matters
Will Forte on his infamous ‘SNL’ audition is more than just a funny story—it’s a testament to the power of taking risks and staying true to your comedic voice. His willingness to be vulnerable, to try new things, and to apologize for nothing (except maybe a little too much “cock” and “face paint”) is what makes his audition legendary.
As SNL marks its 50th anniversary, stories like Forte’s remind us why the show remains a cultural institution. The audition process is grueling, unpredictable, and often terrifying—but for those who dare to be different, it can be the start of something extraordinary.
Want to relive the magic? Check out the latest SNL 50th anniversary specials and docuseries for rare footage of Will Forte’s infamous audition and more behind-the-scenes gems.