Steve Martin has declined an offer to play Minnesota Governor Tim Walz on the upcoming 50th season of “Saturday Night Live.” The decision comes after fans expressed interest in who would be cast to portray Kamala Harris’ new running mate, with many noting the resemblance between Walz and Martin due to their similar hairstyles and glasses. Despite being a frequent guest on the show, Martin, who is not known for impressions, felt it best to turn down the role, stating that Lorne Michaels, the producer of “SNL,” also agreed that a skilled impressionist was needed for the part.
In a statement to the Los Angeles Times, Steve Martin shared that although he initially found humor in the situation, he recognized the commitment required for such a role on the long-standing comedy series. He emphasized the ongoing nature of portraying a character like Tim Walz on “SNL,” indicating that it goes beyond a one-time performance and requires someone adept at impressions. Ultimately, Martin believed he would struggle with the demands of the part and felt it best to pass on the opportunity.
Meanwhile, Maya Rudolph, who gained popularity for her portrayal of Kamala Harris on the show, is set to reprise her role for the upcoming season. Rudolph, an Emmy winner for her portrayal of Harris, reportedly adjusted the shooting schedule of her comedy series “Loot” to accommodate her commitments on “SNL” through the election season. The decision showcases Rudolph’s dedication to the role and her ability to balance multiple projects simultaneously.
As fans eagerly await the return of “Saturday Night Live” with its 50th season premiere on September 28, the casting decisions for prominent political figures continue to generate interest and speculation. Maya Rudolph’s portrayal of Kamala Harris, alongside the search for a suitable impersonator for Tim Walz, highlights the importance of finding skilled performers who can bring these characters to life on the iconic comedy show.
