Stefon Zelesky, the beloved Saturday Night Live (SNL) character played by Bill Hader, has become a cult favorite among fans. With his outrageous antics and unique nightlife adventures, it’s no wonder that discussions were held regarding a potential movie based on the character. However, according to Seth Meyers, the movie idea was ultimately scrapped, leaving Stefon to live on only in the minds of his dedicated followers and on YouTube.
In an interview on the podcast Las Culturistas, Meyers, who portrayed the iconic “Weekend Update” anchor alongside Stefon, revealed some tantalizing details about what could have been. He shared that his character would have met his untimely demise after a wild night of partying with Stefon. While Meyers would have had a small part in the film, the co-starring role would have been handed to someone else. The idea was for Stefon to take the audience on an unforgettable night out in his beloved city of New York.
Meyers further explained his vision for the film’s opening sequence, which would have captured the essence of Stefon’s vibrant character. The montage would have consisted of super-fast cuts, showcasing Stefon and Meyers partying at various outrageous clubs. However, this lively sequence would come to an unexpected end with Meyers in a body bag, shocking both Stefon and the audience.
The idea of turning an SNL character into a full-length feature film may raise eyebrows and skepticism. While there have been successes in the past, such as The Blues Brothers Movie and Wayne’s World, there are also numerous examples of failed attempts. The disparity in these outcomes serves as a reminder of the risks involved in adapting a sketch comedy character to the big screen.
Not all SNL-based movies face a grim fate. The Blues Brothers Movie became a classic with its engaging story, memorable music, and comedic brilliance. Wayne’s World also produced a sequel and a chart-topping soundtrack, solidifying its place in pop culture history. However, it is important to remember that these triumphs are the exception rather than the rule.
While the movie adaptation of Stefon’s character ultimately fell through, the potential for an exciting and outrageous cinematic experience remains tantalizing. Stefon’s eccentricities and unique perspective on nightlife could have provided a hilarious and vibrant journey for audiences. However, the cautionary tales of failed SNL movies are a reminder that bringing sketch comedy characters to the big screen is not a guaranteed success.
In the end, Stefon: The Movie may have been a risky proposition, but the possibility of capturing the essence of this beloved character on a larger scale would have been a true cinematic adventure. Despite its demise, Stefon will forever hold a special place in the hearts of SNL fans, with his memorable appearances continuing to bring joy through the power of the internet.