A New Documentary About SNL Writer Jim Downey Premieres Oct 17 on Peacock
You quote it. Now meet the man who wrote it.
A new Peacock Original documentary, Downey Wrote That, will debut on Oct 17, spotlighting the legendary career of Saturday Night Live writer Jim Downey. The hourlong film dives deep into Downey’s sketches, contributions, and lasting influence as one of the most impactful comedy writers in the history of SNL.
What is Downey Wrote That about?
Exploring the rich history of television’s longest-running comedy institution, the documentary reveals Downey’s mastery as the behind-the-scenes comedic architect of SNL for over three decades. Though largely unseen by audiences, Downey is the prolific mind behind many of the show’s most unforgettable moments — from Chris Farley and Patrick Swayze "Chippendales Audition" to the recent SNL50: The Anniversary Special.
Downey began his tenure at SNL in 1976, where he started the same week as performer Bill Murray, and holds the record as the longest-running writer in the show’s history. His work has earned him five Emmy Awards and Murray called Downey "the best writer I've ever worked with" in the doc's trailer.
Which celebrities are in the documentary?
The film features candid interviews with Downey alongside a star-studded lineup of comedy legends, SNL cast members, and writers. Appearances include Fred Armisen, Andy Breckman, Dana Carvey, Greg Daniels, Will Forte, Al Franken, Bill Hader, Darrell Hammond, David Letterman, Jon Lovitz, Seth Meyers, Lorne Michaels, Garrett Morris, John Mulaney, Laraine Newman, Conan O’Brien, Bob Odenkirk, Lawrence O’Donnell, Maya Rudolph, Molly Shannon, Martin Short, Robert Smigel, David Spade, Emily Spivey, Ben Stiller, and Kenan Thompson.
Produced by Broadway Video in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, Downey Wrote That is executive produced by Lorne Michaels, Susan Morrison, Andy Breckman, Erin David, Eddie Michaels, Oz Rodriguez, and Brent Hodge. Derik Murray and Brian Gersh serve as co-executive producers.
Watch the trailer for Downey Wrote That HERE
Every season of Saturday Night Live is available to stream on Peacock. New episodes stream live on Peacock in addition to airing on NBC at 11:30p ET/8:30p PT.
