Kristen Wiig Reveals the One Piece of Advice from SNL Costar Will Forte That She’s ‘Carried’ with Her
The Impactful Advice Kristen Wiig Received from Will Forte on SNL
Kristen Wiig, beloved for her sharp wit and memorable characters on Saturday Night Live (SNL), recently opened up about a pivotal moment in her career during a heartfelt conversation on Amy Poehler’s podcast, *Good Hang*. The actress and comedian revealed the one piece of advice from her former SNL costar Will Forte that she has “carried” with her throughout her journey in comedy.
Wiig, who joined SNL in 2005 and quickly became a fan favorite, credited Forte with helping her find confidence in her comedic instincts, especially when it came to pitching sketches in the notoriously competitive writer’s room. This advice not only shaped her approach on the show but also influenced her work beyond SNL, including her success as a co-writer and star of hit films like *Bridesmaids* and *Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar*.
Finding Confidence in Your Own Voice
During the podcast episode, Wiig recounted how she often doubted whether her ideas would resonate with the show’s producers, particularly Lorne Michaels, the creator and executive producer of SNL. She shared that she would sometimes hesitate, wondering if her sketches were funny enough or if they would be well-received.
It was in one of these moments of uncertainty that Will Forte offered her a simple but powerful piece of advice: “Never write for if you think someone else is going to think this is funny… Write if you think it’s funny.” This guidance encouraged Wiig to trust her own comedic perspective rather than second-guessing what others might find amusing.
Wiig explained, “The more I would put up that I thought was funny, the more I could kind of hone what kind of works and what doesn’t.” This mindset helped her develop a unique comedic voice that resonated with audiences and colleagues alike.
From SNL to Hollywood Success
Kristen Wiig’s time on SNL was marked by iconic characters such as the Target Lady and Sue, the overly enthusiastic party guest. These characters, born from her original audition and nurtured by her growing confidence, became staples of the show and showcased her ability to blend quirky humor with relatable traits.
After her successful stint on SNL, Wiig transitioned into film and television, bringing the same fearless creativity to her roles. She co-wrote and starred in *Bridesmaids*, a comedy that received critical acclaim and commercial success, further cementing her status as a leading figure in comedy. Her work on *Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar* and voice roles in popular series like *Big Mouth* and *Gabby’s Dollhouse* demonstrate her versatility and continued relevance in the entertainment industry.
Wiig’s story highlights how a single piece of advice can empower an artist to embrace their individuality and take creative risks that pay off in the long run.
The Role of Supportive Collaborations
Wiig’s relationship with her SNL colleagues, especially Amy Poehler and Will Forte, has been a cornerstone of her career. Poehler’s podcast provided a platform for Wiig to reflect on her experiences and share insights with fans and aspiring comedians.
The camaraderie and support among the SNL cast members foster an environment where creativity thrives. Wiig’s anecdote about Forte’s advice underscores the importance of mentorship and encouragement in the arts, where self-doubt can often hinder innovation.
Conclusion
Kristen Wiig’s revelation about the advice from Will Forte offers valuable lessons for anyone navigating creative fields: trust your instincts, embrace your unique perspective, and don’t be afraid to take risks. This mindset not only helped Wiig succeed on SNL but also propelled her to become one of the most respected comedians and writers in Hollywood.
If you’re inspired by Kristen Wiig’s journey and want to learn more about the creative processes of your favorite comedians, be sure to follow Amy Poehler’s *Good Hang* podcast and stay updated with the latest stories from the world of entertainment. Embrace your own voice today and see where it can take you!
