Lorne Michaels: The Hug-Dodging Host?

Seth Meyers has offered a unique perspective on "Saturday Night Live" creator Lorne Michaels' audition process, suggesting the legendary producer might be anxious about receiving hugs. Meyers theorizes that Michaels' reserved approach during casting is a deliberate strategy to prevent new cast members from excitedly embracing him.

Michaels' method involves delivering news in a way that often leads candidates, like current "SNL" star Ashley Padilla, to believe they haven't made the cut. This surprise element, Meyers explained, is a tactic to manage potential over-excitement, thereby avoiding unwanted hugs. He clarified that Michaels isn't averse to hugs, but rather to those given by individuals expressing excessive enthusiasm.

Padilla recounted her own audition experience, sharing the relief and disbelief upon learning she had been hired. This shared audition narrative highlights Michaels' unconventional approach to managing talent acquisition, a method that has evidently been in place for years, creating memorable moments for both new and veteran cast members.