In his upcoming book 'Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live', executive producer Lorne Michaels defends the show’s long-standing claim of nonpartisanship in political satire. However, the legacy is complicated by decisions such as the controversial 2024 hosting gig by anti-woke comedian Shane Gillis, which has drawn sharp criticism from progressive voices and raised concerns about the show’s commitment to inclusivity and resistance to reactionary narratives.

As SNL enters its 50th season, the NPR article highlights its long-standing role in shaping American political discourse through incisive satire. The show has historically critiqued authoritarian figures and promoted progressive ideals, influencing public perceptions and political narratives.

Unionized postproduction workers at Saturday Night Live ratified their first contract on March 23, 2023, averting a potential strike. The agreement includes immediate wage raises ranging from 7.5% to 33.5%, increasing up to 60% over a three‐year period, guaranteed healthcare, and additional benefits. The deal also features a joint commitment to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The postproduction crew of Saturday Night Live unanimously ratified their first-ever contract with NBC, which includes immediate pay increases, enhanced healthcare benefits, and additional worker protections. This agreement averted a potential strike and reflects significant progress in labor rights.

SNL post-production union members ratified a contract on March 23, 2023, securing immediate pay increases, improved healthcare and additional benefits, thereby averting a planned strike and advancing worker rights.

SNL post-production workers authorized strike action after rejecting an inadequate contract proposal, highlighting reports of grueling schedules, lack of proper health benefits, and exploitative working conditions. The move underscores concerns about the company's treatment of its labor force in a high-pressure entertainment environment.

The NBC News article details how Saturday Night Live has historically used its platform to satirize and critique political figures, influencing public perceptions and contributing to an anti-authoritarian political culture. The show's sketches, such as those featuring impressions of presidents and candidates, helped shape political discourse by challenging power structures and promoting skepticism towards authoritarian policies.