Who is Speedy Rosenthal, the man Adam Sandler says will take over SNL from Lorne Michaels?

During Saturday Night Live's 50th anniversary special, Adam Sandler gave a humorous and heartfelt tribute to the people behind the scenes who have made the show a legendary success over five decades. In a moment of lightheartedness, Sandler jokingly named Speedy Rosenthal as the person who would eventually take over from Lorne Michaels. This statement caught the attention of many, sparking curiosity about who this seemingly elusive figure is.

Speedy Rosenthal, a name not widely known to the public, has been an integral part of SNL's behind-the-scenes team for nearly 50 years. He has worked as a music technician for the show since its inception in 1975. His work ensures the live musical performances and technical aspects of each show run smoothly, making him a vital part of the production crew. Over the years, Rosenthal became a beloved fixture at SNL, working alongside cast members like Sandler, who were quick to show affection and respect for his long-standing dedication to the show.


While many fans associate SNL with its iconic cast members, writers, and musical guests, the behind-the-scenes team plays a huge part in making the show the live television event it is known to be. Rosenthal, who has spent decades in the music department, has been a crucial part of that team. His job as a music technician involved managing the technical aspects of live music performances, ensuring that everything from the sound quality to the live band performances ran seamlessly. He also played an important role in overseeing the technical setup for musical sketches, which have always been a signature feature of SNL's comedic style.

Additionally, Rosenthal's career extends beyond SNL. He also contributed his expertise to Late Night with David Letterman and 30 Rock, further showcasing his proficiency in live television production. His extensive experience in music and technical production made him one of the most trusted and valuable team members in SNL’s history. The respect from cast members like Sandler stems from their recognition of how essential his role was to the success of the show’s iconic live performances.

Lorne Michaels, the creator and longtime producer of SNL, has been the driving force behind the show since its debut in 1975. For decades, Michaels has been known for his perfectionism and his ability to shape the show into a cultural institution. However, as SNL celebrates its 50th anniversary, the question on everyone’s mind is: who will succeed Lorne Michaels when the time comes for him to retire? Michaels himself has stated in past interviews that he may retire after the show reaches its 50th year, but he has since walked back on that idea, stating that he’s still passionate about the show and feels no immediate need to step down.

While Michaels has made it clear that he’s not planning to leave SNL just yet, the search for his eventual successor has been a topic of much speculation. Names such as Steve Higgins, Tina Fey, Seth Meyers, and Kenan Thompson have all been mentioned as potential candidates. However, Sandler’s playful comment about Speedy Rosenthal sheds light on a different aspect of the show’s leadership—a recognition of the behind-the-scenes figures who helped make SNL what it is today.


The mention of Speedy Rosenthal as a possible heir to Lorne Michaels’ throne, while made in jest by Sandler, highlights the importance of the often-overlooked staff members who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Rosenthal, having been with SNL since its earliest days, represents the unsung heroes of the show—the technical experts and support staff who ensure that everything runs smoothly. Sandler’s joke emphasizes that while SNL is often defined by its star-studded cast and guest hosts, it’s the people like Speedy who keep the show on track.

The affection and respect for Rosenthal extend beyond Sandler’s joke. His long-standing commitment to SNL, paired with his experience in live television production, makes him a key figure within the SNL family. While it’s unlikely that Speedy will take over from Michaels in a direct leadership role, the joke reflects a larger truth: behind every iconic SNL moment is an army of hardworking, dedicated staff, and Rosenthal is a prime example of that dedication.


Though Adam Sandler's comment about Speedy Rosenthal taking over SNL was playful, it serves to recognize the often unheralded individuals who have shaped the show over the years. Rosenthal’s contribution to the show’s success is immeasurable, and his name being brought up as a potential future leader is a testament to the legacy of the people who have made SNL a cultural landmark. While SNL will undoubtedly face significant change once Michaels eventually steps down, the show’s future is in good hands with the many talented and dedicated individuals who continue to ensure its success, both on and off camera.