Comedian Sarah Sherman has recently shared a touching story about a surprising connection to Gilda Radner, one of the original stars of Saturday Night Live. Sherman revealed that she received a heartfelt letter from Radner’s brother, notifying her that her SAG residual checks had mistakenly been sent to Radner’s estate.
During an appearance on Vulture’s Good One podcast, Sherman expressed her emotional reaction to the event. “I got a giant envelope in the mail with a handwritten letter that was like, ‘Hey, I’m Gilda Radner’s brother,’’’ she recounted. He informed her that he had been receiving her residual checks for several months and added a compliment about her performances on SNL. This revelation moved Sherman to tears, as she felt a deep connection to the late comedy legend.
Additionally, Sherman described her excitement in sharing this news with SNL creator Lorne Michaels. Her text conveyed a sense of wonder about the coincidence, likening it to a spiritual sign. Michaels responded simply, saying, “That’s sweet.”
Gilda Radner is celebrated for her iconic characters, including Roseanne Rosannadanna, and is remembered as a pioneer of sketch comedy. She was part of the original SNL cast from 1975 until her departure in 1980, and her legacy continues to influence comedians today.
This story not only showcases Sherman’s emotional journey but highlights the lasting impact of Radner’s legacy within the comedy community. It’s a reminder of how the past can intersect with the present in unexpected and meaningful ways.