Legendary comedian and parody artist Weird Al Yankovic has revealed that he gave his blessing to Saturday Night Live alum Andy Samberg before the latter performed a memorable impression of him on the show.
Yankovic, known for his comedic takes on popular songs like “Polka Face” and “Amish Paradise,” made the revelation at the 2024 Children’s Hospital Gala in Los Angeles. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Yankovic shared that Samberg reached out to him prior to the sketch, seeking his approval.
“Andy actually called me up before the show and said, ‘Hey, man, I’m doing an impression of you, and I hope it’s— I’m like ‘Yeah, it’s fine, whatever you want to do,’” Yankovic recalled.
The two comedians have a long-standing friendship, and Samberg’s portrayal of Yankovic in the 2012 SNL sketch was widely praised.
Yankovic also expressed his interest in hosting Saturday Night Live, admitting that he’s puzzled by the fact that he hasn’t been asked yet. “I wonder, ‘Why I haven’t done that yet?’ and that’s one of them,” he said. “But you know it, you know it still may happen. Who knows?”
If given the opportunity, Yankovic would prefer to host the show rather than simply appear as a musical guest. “I think I’d rather be a host than be a musical guest, because if you host, you have more permission to mess up,” he explained. “And as a musical guest if you get one note wrong, you’re a failure.”
Yankovic’s special connection to the Los Angeles Children’s Hospital was also highlighted in the interview. He shared that his wife is a cuddler at the hospital, volunteering her time to provide comfort and support to young patients.
