Laraine Newman's Milestones: Celebrating Anniversaries and Awards

Laraine Newman, a comedy legend, is marking some big moments this year. She's part of the 50th anniversary of both The Groundlings comedy troupe and Saturday Night Live (SNL). She's also set to host the Sentinel Awards, which honor TV shows that tackle health and social issues. Newman was one of SNL's original cast members, and she's proud of how the show uses comedy to discuss serious topics. She says it makes a lasting impact. The Sentinel Awards are all about recognizing shows that inform, educate, and motivate. Winners like Abbott Elementary and Feud: Capote vs. the Swans are great examples. Newman is excited to host, especially since the awards are connected to Norman Lear, who she admires. SNL just started its 50th season. Newman remembers her time on the show fondly, like the classic "Superhero Party" sketch. She also talks about the Coneheads, a sketch that required a lot of special makeup. The anniversary of SNL coincides with the release of a movie called Saturday Night, which captures the excitement of the show's first episode. Newman thinks the movie does a great job of getting the feel right, even though it's a work of fiction. Newman was there when The Groundlings started in 1974. This troupe has trained many comedians, including those who later joined SNL. Newman did character monologues when she was with The Groundlings, and one of them even ended up in a SNL sketch. She's enjoyed reconnecting with fellow troupe members over the years, finding that their shared improv background makes it easy to work together.