From the Robert Zemeckis Center to Studio 8H, USC has produced some of the biggest names in comedy. As the iconic late-night show Saturday Night Live (SNL) celebrated its 50-year anniversary on Sunday, February 16, USC celebrated too.
Over the years, USC has played a pivotal role in shaping SNL’s stars, from former cast members like Will Ferrell (’90), Beck Bennett (’07) and Kyle Mooney (’07) to rising stars such as Ego Nwodim (’10). Behind the scenes, SNL writers and USC alumni such as Jimmy Fowlie (’08) and David McCary also made their mark.
For many aspiring comedians, USC served as a launchpad for their careers, offering hands-on experience that mirrors the fast-paced, collaborative nature of SNL.
David Isaacs, a veteran comedy writer celebrating 50 years in the Writers Guild of America and a professor of screen and television writing at USC, believes the university provides students with a training ground for success in the comedy world.
“The advantage that you get at USC… is a chance to recreate writing on demand, writing on a schedule and putting it all on its feet, which is the kind of experience that almost every comedy writer wishes they could be a part of,” Isaacs said.
While the final product seems flawless, honing in on these skills is something is “...that you have to practice again and again and again,” according to Isaacs. This repetition is vital for young people interested in comedy, and USC fosters an environment for students to learn, improve and eventually become leaders in the comedy space, Isaacs said.
This direct training is fostered in the USC Comedy Live class, directed by USC alum Kirstin Eggers (BFA ‘01). Eggers describes the class as “reminiscent of the experience of Saturday Night Live,” and an introduction to the world of professional comedy.
Reflecting on her time as a student, Eggers recalls the camaraderie and support within USC’s comedy scene that she now strives to recreate for her students.
“The most important aspect is the comedy community that is fostered… finding your creative partners that are going to stay with you after college is the biggest takeaway,” Eggers said.
With three live shows each semester, Comedy Live, much like SNL, relies on a collaborative writing and performance process where students support and elevate each other’s material.
“Being able to write for each other and elevate each other’s material is very close to what they do on Saturday Night Live,” Eggers added.
For Ryan Kolderup, the current student executive producer of USC Comedy Live, watching students develop their skills and gain confidence in their craft is one of the most rewarding parts of the process.
“It’s really satisfying to see the students get better, get familiar with these crafts, and see them do the work to make this show happen,” Kolderup said. “Doing what I can to guide that [process] is really satisfying when it pays off.”