Andy Samberg recently opened up about his decision to leave the iconic show 'Saturday Night Live' after seven successful seasons, shedding light on the toll it took on his well-being.
The beloved comedian, known for his role in 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine,' shared on Peacock's 'Hart to Heart' with Kevin Hart that the demanding nature of the sketch comedy series was causing him to unravel physically and emotionally.
Samberg, now 45, quietly exited 'SNL' following the Season 37 finale in May 2012, citing his health as a primary reason for his departure. The breaking point for him came when his close friends and Lonely Island bandmates, Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone, left the show after their writing contracts ended.
Realizing he couldn't replicate the magic of hits like 'D--k in a Box' and 'I'm on a Boat' without his collaborators, Samberg expressed, "I was basically left in charge of making the shorts, which I never pretended like I could do without them."
Despite creating content he was proud of in his final years on the show, Samberg acknowledged the unique chemistry he shared with Schaffer and Taccone couldn't be replicated with other writers.
Reflecting on the grueling schedule of 'SNL,' Samberg revealed the intense workload that left him sleep-deprived for years on end. The relentless cycle of writing, filming, and editing left him physically drained, leading to his decision to step away from the show.
Following his departure, Samberg has enjoyed a flourishing career in television and film, even returning to host 'SNL' in 2014 and making several cameo appearances. Despite the challenges he faced, Samberg remains grateful for the opportunities comedy has brought him.
Samberg's candid confession sheds light on the sacrifices and struggles that often accompany success in the entertainment industry. His journey serves as a reminder that prioritizing mental and physical well-being is paramount, even in the pursuit of one's passion.