Will Forte has candidly reflected on his time as a cast member of “Saturday Night Live,” particularly about stepping into the role of George W. Bush after Will Ferrell’s iconic portrayal. In a recent episode of “Good Hang with Amy Poehler,” Forte admitted that he quickly realized he was not the ideal choice for the role, stating, “It was a match not made in heaven.” He acknowledged Ferrell’s unique take on Bush, suggesting that perhaps the character should have been set aside instead of continuing with a new impersonator.
Forte, who was part of an extensive cast of 17 at the time, expressed the challenges he faced in trying to stand out while handling a role that he felt didn’t align with his strengths, as he does not specialize in impersonations. Reflecting on his growth, Forte shared that it wasn’t until his seventh year on “SNL” that he began to feel comfortable and secure in his performances. This shift was prompted by constructive feedback from “SNL” creator Lorne Michaels, who encouraged him to embrace the sketches he did not write and to take ownership of them.
With humor and honesty, Forte recounted how this advice changed his perspective on performance, noting, “It really could have gone either way. I could have just receded into [my] shell and melted down.” Instead, he found a sense of relief in realizing that the worst-case scenario hadn’t happened — he wasn’t fired. This insight allowed him to enjoy his remaining time on the show, demonstrating how resilience and embracing feedback can lead to personal and professional growth.
Forte’s journey on “SNL” serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and the positive effects of constructive criticism on creative confidence. His experiences highlight that even in high-pressure environments, with the right mindset and guidance, one can find their footing and thrive.