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Gabriel LaBelle steps into the spotlight with ‘Saturday Night’
A new chapter for Gabriel LaBelle
The iconic phrase, “Live from New York, it’s Saturday night!” takes on fresh significance for Gabriel LaBelle. On a recent Thursday evening in Los Angeles, during a celebration of young Hollywood talent, LaBelle shared his thoughts on embodying the legendary creator of “Saturday Night Live,” Lorne Michaels, in Jason Reitman’s upcoming film, Saturday Night.
From Spielberg to Michaels
Reflecting on his journey, LaBelle reminisced about his breakout role in The Fablemans, where he portrayed a young Steven Spielberg. Now, he faces the challenge of bringing a young Lorne Michaels to life. ”We’ll see, it’s not out yet. I could mess everything up,” LaBelle joked, before adding, “I saw the movie a couple of weeks ago. It’s really good. Jason did such a good job. I’m so proud to be a part of that.”
Preparing for the role
To prepare for this monumental role, LaBelle immersed himself in extensive research. “I met him once briefly,” he shared. “I was reading books, a lot of books, the internet’s endless. I looked at impressions — not to do a caricature of him, but define what mannerisms kind of pop up that the people closest to him remember. Just toning it down, and working on his Canadian accent.”
The chaos behind the scenes
Saturday Night, written by Reitman and Gil Kenan, delves into the nerve-wracking and chaotic 90 minutes leading up to the first broadcast of the NBC comedy show. The recently released trailer showcases LaBelle’s character battling to get the show off the ground amidst unpredictable cast members and demanding studio executives.
Reitman explained that casting the 21-year-old LaBelle as Michaels, who was 30 when “SNL” began, added to the sense of a young genius in over his head. “We meet Lorne as he’s still forming,” Reitman noted. “He is a genius, and he has a vision beyond anyone else there — and anyone his age. It’s a lot for an actor to carry.”
A star-studded ensemble
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Dylan O’Brien as Dan Aykroyd, Cory Michael Smith as Chevy Chase, Rachel Sennott as Rosie Shuster, Lamorne Morris as Garrett Morris, Nicholas Braun as Jim Henson, Finn Wolfhard as an NBC page, Jon Batiste as Preston, Ella Hunt as Radnor, Cooper Hoffman as Dick Ebersol, Andrew Barth Feldman as Neil Levy, Naomi McPherson as Ian, Willem Dafoe as David Tebet, J.K. Simmons as Milton Berle, and Kaia Gerber as Jacqueline Carlin.
A dream come true
When asked about the possibility of hosting ”Saturday Night Live,” LaBelle expressed his enthusiasm. “I grew up on SNL, so it would be another dream come true,” he said. “I didn’t know I would ever get the chance to experience it.”
Watch the trailer
For those eager to catch a glimpse of this highly anticipated film, you can watch the trailer for Saturday Night here.
Personal reflections for cinema and TV series enthusiasts
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, the prospect of seeing a film that delves into the origins of “Saturday Night Live” is incredibly exciting. The show has been a cultural touchstone for decades, launching the careers of countless comedians and actors. The idea of exploring the chaotic and nerve-wracking moments leading up to its first broadcast offers a fascinating glimpse behind the curtain.
Gabriel LaBelle’s journey from portraying a young Spielberg to a young Lorne Michaels is a testament to his versatility and dedication as an actor. His commitment to understanding Michaels’ mannerisms and accent speaks volumes about his approach to the craft. It’s not just about imitation but capturing the essence of a person who has had a profound impact on comedy and television.
The ensemble cast adds another layer of excitement. With talents like Dylan O’Brien, Cory Michael Smith, and Willem Dafoe, the film promises to be a rich tapestry of performances that bring the early days of ”SNL” to life. Each actor’s portrayal of iconic figures from the show’s history will undoubtedly be a highlight for fans.
For those who have grown up watching “SNL,” this film is more than just a biopic; it’s a nostalgic journey that celebrates the show’s legacy. The anticipation of seeing how the film captures the essence of those early days, the struggles, the triumphs, and the sheer chaos, is palpable.
Saturday Night is shaping up to be a must-watch for anyone who loves cinema, television, and the rich history of comedy. Gabriel LaBelle’s portrayal of Lorne Michaels, supported by a stellar cast, promises to deliver a compelling and entertaining look at the birth of an iconic show. So, mark your calendars and get ready to dive into the world of “Saturday Night Live” like never before.
