Introduction
Norm Macdonald is a Canadian comedian, actor, and writer who has been entertaining audiences for over three decades. He is best known for his work on Saturday Night Live, where he served as a cast member and anchor of the “Weekend Update” segment. However, his career extends far beyond SNL, with numerous appearances in movies, TV shows, and stand-up specials. In this blog post, we will explore the hilarious career of Norm Macdonald, from his early days on SNL to his recent work on The Orville and beyond.
Early Career
Saturday Night Live
Norm Macdonald’s big break came in 1993 when he joined the cast of Saturday Night Live. He quickly made a name for himself with his deadpan delivery, irreverent humor, and impression of Burt Reynolds. He also served as the anchor of the “Weekend Update” segment, where he delivered biting commentary on current events and popular culture.
Macdonald’s tenure on SNL was not without controversy, however. He was fired from the show in 1998, reportedly due to conflicts with NBC executives and his refusal to tone down his humor. Nevertheless, he remains a beloved figure among SNL fans and is widely regarded as one of the show’s greatest cast members.
Movie and TV Roles
The Norm Show
After leaving SNL, Norm Macdonald starred in his own sitcom, The Norm Show, which aired from 1999 to 2001. The show followed the misadventures of a former NHL player who is forced to do community service after a DUI conviction. Macdonald’s dry wit and comedic timing made the show a hit with audiences, and it remains a cult favorite to this day.
Dirty Work
In 1998, Norm Macdonald starred in the comedy film Dirty Work, which he also co-wrote. The movie follows two friends who start a revenge-for-hire business to pay for their friend’s heart transplant. While the movie was not a box office success, it has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic of the “so bad it’s good” genre.
Recent Work
The Orville
In 2017, Norm Macdonald joined the cast of the sci-fi comedy series The Orville, created by Seth MacFarlane. Macdonald plays the voice of Yaphit, a gelatinous alien crew member who serves as the ship’s engineer. His deadpan delivery and offbeat humor are a perfect fit for the show’s irreverent tone, and he has quickly become a fan favorite.
Stand-Up Specials
In addition to his work on TV and movies, Norm Macdonald has also released several stand-up specials over the years. His most recent special, Hitler’s Dog, Gossip & Trickery, premiered on Netflix in 2017 and showcases his unique brand of absurdist humor. Despite his controversial reputation, Macdonald remains one of the most beloved and respected comedians of his generation.
Conclusion
Norm Macdonald’s career has been marked by his irreverent humor, deadpan delivery, and refusal to compromise his comedic vision. From his early days on SNL to his recent work on The Orville and beyond, he has entertained audiences with his unique brand of humor and earned a place in the pantheon of comedy legends. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, Norm Macdonald is a comedian who is always worth watching.
