Martha Stewart’s journey in the limelight is far from ordinary, with her unique blend of culinary prowess, lifestyle branding, and an unexpected brush with the law. As the 50th anniversary of “Saturday Night Live” approaches, a fascinating “what if” scenario has emerged from Stewart’s vibrant past: she was once invited to host the iconic show back in 2005. However, her ambitions were thwarted by an unlikely nemesis—her parole officer.
According to a candid conversation Stewart had on “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon, her stint in prison, humorously referred to as “that camp I was in for a while,” became a barrier to fulfilling the hosting role of “SNL.” With only eight hours of freedom a day, the constraints imposed by her parole officer dashed her hosting dreams. Stewart’s comedic timing came to light when she quipped about her parole officer’s decision with a playful jab, “No, that bastard!” indicating her lingering frustration with the situation. Despite this missed opportunity, Stewart’s status as a cultural icon remains unshaken.
Stewart’s Enduring Relevance
Martha Stewart continues to be a subject of fascination, recently appearing at the center of a Netflix documentary aptly titled “Martha.” While Fallon deemed it a remarkable portrayal, the domestic diva herself wasn’t entirely on board, offering a litany of criticisms on the film’s omissions. Stewart teased the possibility of a sequel during her chat with Fallon, revealing her desire to share more about her extensive and eventful life—one that’s seen multiple impersonations on “Saturday Night Live” by various comedians.
Over the decades, Stewart’s character has become a staple for “SNL” impressionists, amassing as many as nine depictions from different comedians. Bringing her experience full circle, Stewart expressed her keen desire to host the show herself someday, confidently asserting, “I would be amazing.” She even playfully encouraged viewers to “start a campaign” to make it happen.
The Legacy Continues
As “Saturday Night Live” gears up to celebrate its half-century run, it stands as a testament to the cultural moments it has documented and the talents it has showcased. Martha Stewart’s almost-hosting gig serves as a delightful nugget of “what could have been” in the annals of the show’s storied history. Despite the missed opportunity, Stewart remains a beloved figure in pop culture. The anecdotes she shares, her willingness to embrace her past with humor, and her continued influence in the lifestyle arena keep her in the public eye—proof that even without stepping onto the “SNL” stage, she’s already firmly entrenched in its legacy.
Looking forward, perhaps Stewart’s hosting dreams will one day come to fruition. After all, “SNL” has a knack for making unexpected moments happen, just as Stewart’s career has consistently surprised and engaged audiences through the years. As both the woman and the show continue to evolve, their paths may yet cross in the ways fans have long imagined.
