Podcast Title: Good One: A Podcast About Jokes
Host: Jesse David Fox, Vulture.com Senior Editor
Guest: Sarah Sherman
Episode Title: Sarah Sherman on Secrets from SNL 50, Nosferatu, and being in Domingo
Release Date: June 20, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of "Good One: A Podcast About Jokes," host Jesse David Fox welcomes comedian and Saturday Night Live (SNL) writer Sarah Sherman. The conversation delves deep into Sarah's innovative approach to SNL's Weekend Update segment, her creation of the quirky Nosferatu character, and her experiences working on SNL's landmark 50th season.

Redefining Weekend Update with Nosferatu

Sarah Sherman has made a significant impact on SNL's Weekend Update by introducing the character Nosferatu, a vampiric figure who humorously roasts the show's host, Colin Jost.

[01:46] Jesse David Fox: "What was the funniest thing that happened to you this week?"

[01:49] Sarah Sherman: "I was hiking up Bear Mountain in Victoria, British Columbia, lost in thought with the Beach Boys playing... I started sobbing and realized there were bears nearby, so I fled home."

Sarah's anecdote highlights her unique blend of humor and vulnerability, which translates seamlessly into her SNL persona. She describes Nosferatu as a silent, cartoonish vampire with exaggerated features, such as long, pointy teeth, designed to add a layer of absurdity to the segment.

[04:11] Sarah Sherman: "He’s got no skin. He’s a pervert. I love the flesh monster TV from Terror Vision... he sucks your mind."

The Creative Process Behind Nosferatu

Sarah provides an inside look into the meticulous process of bringing Nosferatu to life on Weekend Update. From pitching the idea to collaborating with costume designers and special effects artists, she emphasizes the importance of creativity and teamwork.

[07:10] Sarah Sherman: "I wrote a pitch for a parody trailer of Nosferatu criticizing its poor cinematography, but it bombed because no one had seen the trailer yet."

Despite initial setbacks, Sarah persisted, eventually refining the character to better fit the show's dynamic. She shares humorous insights into the challenges of live television, such as managing props like the detachable rat head and dealing with technical mishaps.

[16:14] Sarah Sherman: "I have TMJ, so moving my mouth in these exaggerated ways was impossible for me."

Interactions and Collaborations on SNL

Sarah discusses her collaborative relationships with fellow SNL writers and performers. She highlights the support and constructive feedback she receives, which helps shape and enhance her comedic sketches.

[11:10] Sarah Sherman: "Dan Bola, Mike DeCenzo, and Josh Patton patiently stay up all night thinking about things we can write the next day."

Her ability to blend absurd horror elements with sharp social commentary has become a staple of her sketches, particularly through her relentless roasting of Colin Jost.

Balancing Creativity and Live Performance Anxiety

Performing live on SNL comes with its own set of pressures, which Sarah candidly shares. She often finds herself second-guessing her delivery and jokes, despite the positive reception from audiences.

[42:28] Sarah Sherman: "I enjoy repulsion, so if I hear oohs, ahhs, nos, I'm in heaven. But I feel suicidal during the live show because I just had the dress rehearsal and it was so fun."

Sarah's honesty about her anxiety offers a relatable perspective for many performers, illustrating the fine line between artistic expression and the fear of not meeting expectations.

Memorable Moments and Guest Interactions

Throughout her tenure on SNL, Sarah has encountered numerous celebrities and participated in iconic sketches. She reminisces about interactions with legends like Paul McCartney and Ben Stiller, adding a personal touch to her professional experiences.

[62:44] Sarah Sherman: "Paul McCartney was in the building, and I ran up to him to tell him I stole his Wings-era haircut. He knew and was incredibly nice to me."

These anecdotes showcase Sarah's ability to navigate high-profile environments with humor and grace, further cementing her role within the SNL family.

Reflecting on Long Island Roots and Personal Growth

Sarah delves into her upbringing on Long Island, discussing how it shaped her comedic style and identity. Growing up in a conservative Jewish community, she often felt like the "weirdest person" around, which fueled her desire to embrace individuality and absurdity in her work.

[70:11] Sarah Sherman: "Long Island is pure, unadulterated hell, but its proximity to the city allowed me to escape and pursue comedy from a young age."

Her background provides a rich backdrop for her humor, blending personal experiences with broader societal observations.

Legacy and Future on SNL

As the episode progresses, Sarah contemplates her future on SNL, reflecting on her achievements and the sketches she wishes to explore further. She remains passionate about pushing boundaries and introducing new, unconventional humor to the show.

[90:11] Sarah Sherman: "I played a butt in a sketch that got cut for being too pornographic. But I'm determined to make it work better next time."

Sarah's dedication to her craft promises continued innovation and laughter for SNL audiences.

Conclusion

In this insightful episode of "Good One: A Podcast About Jokes," Sarah Sherman offers a compelling glimpse into the world of live television comedy. Her creative genius, coupled with her candid discussions about the challenges of performing, make for a captivating listen. Whether you're a fan of SNL or simply interested in the art of comedy, Sarah's stories and perspectives are sure to entertain and inspire.

Notable Quotes:

• Sarah Sherman [01:49]: "I was sobbing on the hike... Why do I feel like I was born in the wrong time?"

• Sarah Sherman [04:11]: "I love Frank in Hellraiser. He's got no skin. He's a pervert."

• Sarah Sherman [07:10]: "I pitched a parody of Legally Blonde called Legally Brunette. No one was impressed."

• Sarah Sherman [16:14]: "I have TMJ, so moving my mouth in these exaggerated ways was impossible for me."

• Sarah Sherman [42:28]: "I enjoy repulsion, so if I hear oohs, ahhs, nos, I'm in heaven. But I feel suicidal during the live show."

• Sarah Sherman [70:11]: "Long Island is pure, unadulterated hell, but its proximity to the city allowed me to escape and pursue comedy."

• Sarah Sherman [90:11]: "I played a butt in a sketch that got cut for being too pornographic. But I'm determined to make it work better next time."

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of Sarah Sherman's appearance on the podcast, highlighting her creative processes, personal anecdotes, and the intricacies of live television comedy. Whether discussing her unique SNL sketches or reflecting on her Long Island upbringing, Sarah provides an engaging narrative that both entertains and informs.