- That's why he's not playing Tim Waltz on "SNL".
Steve Martin (78) declines Tim Walz (60) role: Comedian turned down offer to play Democratic VP candidate on "Saturday Night Live". According to the "Los Angeles Times", "SNL" creator Lorne Michaels (79) approached Martin on Wednesday (August 7) for the role. Fans of the show had previously pegged Martin as the favorite for the part.
"I'm not an impersonator"
Martin told the newspaper that he was only asked due to his similar appearance. "I wanted to say no, and he wanted me to say no too," he said about the call. "I said, 'Lorne, I'm not an impersonator. You need someone who really nails the guy,'" he explained, turning down the offer.
The actor also cited the time commitment required for the job. "It's not like you do it once, get applause, and never do it again," he explained. He wasn't willing to commit to that. "They need a real impersonator. They'll find someone who's really, really good. I'd be struggling," he reasoned for his decision.
Maya Rudolph to play Kamala Harris
For the NBC comedy show, Maya Rudolph (52) will portray Kamala Harris (59). Industry website "Deadline" reported last week that the actress will reprise her role as the presidential candidate. She first played the role of the U.S. Vice President in 2019. A year later, she won an Emmy for the impersonation. She is nominated for the award again in 2024, including as lead actress for the series "Loot" and as host for "SNL".
Due to her commitment, the "Grown-ups" actress reportedly reshuffled her entire schedule. "Deadline" reported that production on the third season of "Loot," which Rudolph executive produces, was initially halted. The planned premiere date was August 26. The production, according to sources from the portal, was pushed due to scheduling issues.
Despite being asked due to their physical resemblance, Martin clarified, "I'm not an impersonator. You need someone who really nails the guy," and declined the offer due to the time commitment required for the role.
Considering the extensive preparations and commitment required for an impersonation, Martin chose not to take up the opportunity, stating, "They'll find someone who's really, really good. I'd be struggling."
