Former “Saturday Night Live” cast member Chris Redd opened up about his struggles during his time on the iconic NBC sketch comedy show, revealing that he dealt with personal challenges including substance abuse and feelings of isolation among his peers. In a candid Instagram post, Redd shared his experiences from his five seasons on “SNL,” expressing that he faced “pill problems and issues” and even resorted to selling drugs to fellow castmates, although he refused to specify who.
Redd described his time at “SNL” as particularly difficult, noting the lack of support he felt from co-stars. “They wouldn’t help me,” he said, recalling moments when he experienced panic attacks and overheard colleagues making disparaging remarks instead of offering assistance. Amid these struggles, he found emotional support from Christina Evangeline, the ex-wife of his co-star Kenan Thompson.
Redd began dating Evangeline in September 2022, following Thompson’s filing for divorce in June of the same year after over a decade of marriage. The comedian clarified that he did not pursue Evangeline while she was still married to Thompson, insisting that their relationship developed after both had ended their respective commitments. “There wasn’t a plan,” he noted, explaining that his bond with Evangeline soon deepened as she played a significant role in his recovery journey.
Despite initially feeling guilty for the situation, describing it as an “emotional double-edged sword,” Redd emphasized the importance of their relationship, stating that Evangeline’s honesty and support helped him view life differently. He expressed regret about the impact his relationship had on those around him, particularly Thompson, whom he acknowledged as a valuable collaborator during their shared time on “SNL.”
Redd left “Saturday Night Live” ahead of its 48th season in 2022 and also took part in Thompson’s sitcom, “Kenan,” which aired in 2021 before its cancellation. His confessional serves as a poignant reminder of the personal battles many face behind the scenes, even in the world of comedy, and highlights the potential for love and support to arise from challenging circumstances.