Steve Martin Declines Tim Walz Role on ‘SNL,’ Disappointing Internet Fans

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Steve Martin’s next role won’t be the Midwestern politician fans had hoped for.

Following Maya Rudolph’s highly acclaimed impression of Kamala Harris on “Saturday Night Live,” fans eagerly awaited the show’s pick for Harris’s new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Noticing the visual similarities—similar hairstyles and signature glasses—many fans quickly suggested Steve Martin for the role. Martin has been a frequent guest on “SNL” but has never joined the cast.

The Los Angeles Times reported on Wednesday that “SNL” producer Lorne Michaels had actually reached out to Martin, offering him the role for the upcoming 50th season, set to premiere on Sept. 28. Martin, however, declined.

“I wanted to say no and, by the way, he wanted me to say no,” said Martin. “I told Lorne, ‘I’m not an impressionist. You need someone who can really nail the guy.’ I was picked because I have gray hair and glasses.”

Though Martin had initially played along with the idea, even joking on social media that “Tim Walz wants to go on the road with Marty Short,” he was aware that accepting the role would involve a long-term commitment to the show.

“It’s ongoing,” Martin told the Times. “It’s not like you do it once and get applause and never do it again. They need a real impressionist for this role. They’re going to find someone really, really good. I’d be struggling.”

Meanwhile, Maya Rudolph is set to return to her Emmy-winning role as Kamala Harris. She recognizes the commitment, reportedly adjusting her shooting schedule for the comedy series “Loot” from August to January to accommodate her role through the election season. Rudolph both executive produces and stars in “Loot.”

Rudolph first portrayed “America’s funt” – or “fun aunt” – on “SNL” in 2019 during Harris’s presidential campaign and has continued with the role since Harris became Joe Biden’s running mate.

Source: Associated Press, Los Angeles Times