Post-SNL50, Directing Got No Easier for Liz Patrick

Liz Patrick, a two-time Emmy winner, recently secured her third Emmy award in 2025 for her direction of the "Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special." This extensive broadcast featured numerous celebrity guests and iconic sketches, marking a significant production milestone for Patrick.

Despite the immense undertaking of the anniversary special, Patrick revealed that the weekly demands of directing "SNL" have not lessened. She finds the show's rapid pace, which involves managing a cast of new and developing members, to be consistently challenging. Patrick's journey into television production began at MTV, a role she secured after connecting with a fellow Boston University alum. This experience provided her with a robust foundation for directing complex shows like "SNL."

Patrick joined "SNL" as its sixth studio director in 2021. Her week typically begins Wednesday nights after the read-through, managing around 35 to 45 sketches by Wednesday. She meticulously notes needs for specialty cameras, choreographers, or stunt performers, often sketching set layouts and action sequences to prepare. This intensive process continues until the live Saturday show, a demanding schedule that she states does not become easier over time.

A notable episode during Season 51 featured Olivia Rodrigo as both host and musical guest. Patrick highlighted Rodrigo's professionalism and ability to adapt to the show's fast pace. The episode included a complex sketch, "Edge of Destiny," which featured a dramatic fall down a staircase. The effect was achieved by creatively manipulating the set and camera angles, with Patrick even building a model to illustrate the concept to her production designer.