Don King & Liz Patrick on Why There's No Other Job Like Directing SNL

We sat down to chat with directors Don King & Liz Patrick on what they love about directing the prolific series and what the unique challenges of the weekly live format are. Don talked about his start at SNL and how while he had directed many formats of live TV before the show, he had never done sketch comedy at this scope before. They both emphasized the speed at which they have to operate, reading and marking between 30-50 scripts for the first time on Wed and going into production design meetings immediately with choices. With Don stepping away from SNL, he also talked about the transition handing things off to Liz and the growth, both technical and in content, that had occurred since he took the helm in 2006. Liz shared how she benefited from observing Don and his mentorship during the transition period and to be immersed in the crazy pace and intensity before having to make all the choices alone. They also commented on the healing power of the show in an ever fast moving political climate and adapting to that speed. Ultimately, they both agreed that it was a collaborative process and the director’s role was to accommodate the writer’s vision and respect their material.

Watch the full conversation below.

Q&A on NBC's SNL with directors Don Roy King and Liz Patrick. Moderated by Mara Webster, In Creative Company.

A famous guest host stars in parodies and sketches created by the cast of this witty show.