Podcast Title: Toure Show
Host: DCP Entertainment
Episode: Punkie Johnson–I Was On SNL
Release Date: March 26, 2025
Website: dcpofficial.com/toureshow

Introduction

In this captivating episode of Toure Show, host Toure engages in an in-depth conversation with Punkie Johnson, a celebrated comedian renowned for her four-year stint on Saturday Night Live (SNL). Hailing from New Orleans, Punkie shares her journey through the competitive world of comedy, her experiences on one of television’s most iconic stages, and the personal challenges she navigated along the way.

Early Life and Comedy Beginnings

Punkie Johnson’s comedic roots trace back to her vibrant upbringing in New Orleans. Growing up in a family that found humor in everyday situations, Punkie developed her unique comedic style influenced by her relatives’ inadvertent humor. She reflects:

"You know how you'll just be looking at somebody and they'll just be having a random conversation with somebody and you could just look at their mannerisms and see how they talking to people and you just bust out laughing?" (07:40)

Punkie began her comedy career at the age of 25, motivated by a desire to break out of her immediate environment and pursue her passion for acting and stand-up.

The Road to SNL

Moving to Los Angeles marked a pivotal moment in Punkie’s career. Despite facing skepticism from peers who doubted her potential for mainstream success, she remained steadfast in her ambitions. Her determination was tested as she navigated auditions and the challenges of stand-up comedy:

"I was trying to pitch him [Elon Musk]. I was like, oh, yes. This how you pitched him an idea? And he said, 'That's not funny.'" (00:22)

Despite initial setbacks and waking up contemplating alternative careers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Punkie’s perseverance paid off when she landed a spot on SNL.

Experiences on SNL

Punkie’s time on SNL was a mix of high-energy performances and emotional challenges. She discusses the rigorous environment, the creative pressures, and the constant quest for recognition:

"SNL taught me how to produce. SNL taught me how to direct. SNL taught me basically, when it comes down to producing your own project, you have to have your own vision." (33:53)

She highlights the camaraderie with fellow cast members like Ego and the unique dynamics within the show’s team. However, the relentless cycle of auditions, sketch creations, and frequent rejections took a toll on her mental health:

"It was time to go back for another year. So then the next year came... the writer jobs wasn't happening. I was running out of money." (55:13)

Punkie candidly shares how the constant rejection and imposter syndrome led her to a breaking point, ultimately deciding to leave SNL to preserve her mental well-being.

Personal Struggles and Identity

Beyond the spotlight, Punkie delves into her personal life, discussing her journey with her sexuality and the complexities of her identity as a black, gay woman in the entertainment industry:

"We mirrored a heterosexual relationship. That's what we do... but queer, man, fuck that, so it's just. But it's just a way of like calling for respect for this group of people." (12:24)

She recounts her early realization of her sexuality during ninth grade and the societal pressures that influenced her perception of herself. Punkie also touches on the challenges of navigating relationships within the gay community and the nuances of identity politics in Hollywood.

Reflections on Being Black and LGBTQ+

Punkie proudly embraces her black heritage and LGBTQ+ identity, emphasizing the strength and resilience that comes with it. She articulates:

"I love being black. I would die and come back black every time. I feel like being black is swagalicious. I feel like being black is a statement. I feel like being black is fearless." (83:18)

Her discussions highlight the intersectionality of her experiences, balancing her cultural identity with her sexual orientation, and the imperative of representation in comedy and media.

Lessons Learned and Future Endeavors

Leaving SNL was a turning point for Punkie, prompting her to reconnect with her authentic self and re-evaluate her comedic direction. She reflects on the importance of staying true to her vision and the lessons she garnered from her time on the show:

"I went back to watching my old self before SNL. I went back to see who that person was before I got there. Because I needed to become familiar with why I started this in the first place." (63:23)

Punkie is now focused on building her own comedic bubble, aspiring to create content that resonates universally while maintaining her unique voice. She shares her plans to present a new special to Netflix, illustrating her commitment to evolving as an artist:

"I'm about to pop that bitch off. Hopefully get a viral clip." (63:21)

Memorable Moments on SNL

Punkie reminisces about her favorite characters and sketches from her SNL tenure, highlighting the creative highs that defined her experience:

• Pineapple: Her inaugural character, created during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, received a warm reception from the audience.

  "I wrote it at 4:30 in the morning. And it got picked. And that's my first character." (44:09)

• Latina Jefferson: A character that showcased her ability to blend cultural nuances with humor, earning her significant acclaim.

  "She was just a hustling woman just trying to make it. Whenever it's not going well over here, she goes on the Latina side and see if she can slide." (49:29)

• Dope Ass Update: A viral song that Punkie penned, which she humorously claims as one of SNL’s top tracks.

  "I think it's, they got this chick, and they need a Latina. We're in this world, and they're like, we need a Latina." (46:34)

Relationship Dynamics and Personal Insights

Punkie opens up about her personal relationships, the dynamics of dating within the LGBTQ+ community, and the challenges of maintaining authentic connections:

"You have to tell me what's going on so that I can know what's going on. You can't tell me to leave and then I leave, and you mad cause I leave." (77:40)

Her candidness provides listeners with an unfiltered glimpse into the complexities of her personal life, underscoring the importance of communication and understanding in relationships.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

As the episode winds down, Punkie reflects on her journey, the lessons learned from SNL, and her unwavering commitment to her craft. She expresses gratitude towards her support system, including Lena Waithe, and looks forward to new opportunities that align with her authentic self:

"I had to remember my dog. You a stand up. You never gave a fuck about none of this Hollywood shit. You never cared about these parties." (63:04)

Punkie’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the relentless pursuit of one’s true voice in a challenging industry. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring comedians and actors striving to carve out their niche in the world of entertainment.

Notable Quotes:

• Pitching to Elon Musk:
  Punky Johnson (00:22): "Elon can get anything he wants. He can get the mailman to shit himself. He can get the dogs to lick his head. He can have any woman he wants. Brenda doesn't like it, except Brenda."

• On Rejection at SNL:
  Punky Johnson (35:40): "SNL made me soft because it was a thing of, like. And I mean, it's a thing of please, please, please pick me, Daddy."

• Embracing Black Identity:
  Punky Johnson (83:18): "I love being black. I would die and come back black every time. I feel like being black is swagalicious. I feel like being black is a statement. I feel like being black is fearless."

Final Thoughts

Punkie Johnson’s episode on Toure Show is a compelling narrative of triumphs, tribulations, and the enduring pursuit of authenticity in the face of adversity. Her insights offer valuable lessons on resilience, identity, and the power of humor as a tool for connection and self-expression.

For more inspiring conversations, tune into Toure Show every Wednesday for new episodes and catch throwback episodes on Sundays.

Follow & Connect:

• TikTok: @ToureShow
• Instagram: @ToureShow
• Produced by: Ashley Hobbs
• Editor: Ryan Woodhall
• Booker: Ray Holiday
• Distributed by: DCP Entertainment