Glenn Close Recalls Robin Williams’ Advice Before Her First SNL Hosting Gig
Hollywood legend Glenn Close is opening up about the advice she received from the late Robin Williams before her first-ever Saturday Night Live hosting stint.
The 77-year-old actress, best known for her powerhouse performances in films like Fatal Attraction and Dangerous Liaisons, reminisced about turning to Williams when the opportunity to host the iconic sketch show landed in her lap. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the 12th Annual Bring Change to Mind Revels & Revelations Gala, Close revealed how Williams’ guidance helped her manage the nerve-wracking experience.
“[I went to] Robin Williams, who was my friend,” Close began. “I said, ‘Do you have any advice about Saturday Night Live?’ And he said, ‘Just don’t do anything you don’t think is funny, because you’ll get all these different fabulous ideas.’”
Williams, known for his larger-than-life humor and quick wit, gave Close the confidence she needed to make her SNL debut. “I found that helpful,” she added, reflecting on the wisdom of the late comedy icon, who tragically passed away at the age of 62.
Close first took on the coveted hosting gig in February 1989, during an episode featuring the Gipsy Kings as the musical guests. She later returned to Studio 8H in December 1992 to host the Christmas episode, where The Black Crowes rocked the stage.
Looking back, Close described her first hosting experience as pure magic. “Oh, it was great fun,” she commented, lighting up as she recounted the thrill of the live performance.
One memorable moment from her inaugural SNL stint was a parody that poked fun at her infamous role as Alex Forrest in Fatal Attraction which had just been released. “We had a skit of my character, Alex Forrest, in a group therapy session with her knife and her purse. It was really fun,” she recounted.
And the laughs didn’t stop there. Close also appeared in sketches that showcased her comedic chops, from playing a jealous sister to hilariously singing about being offended by her partner’s comments.
Now, as Saturday Night Live gears up to celebrate its 50th anniversary with a special three-hour broadcast on February 16, 2025, Close’s reflections couldn’t have come at a better time. The anniversary special, titled SNL50: The Anniversary Special, will air live from Studio 8H on NBC and Peacock.
Close’s anecdotes about Williams add an emotional layer to the celebration, reminding fans of the enduring connections between some of Hollywood’s brightest stars.
