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The Insane SNL Sketch That Promoted Jason Sudeikis Overnight
How Jason Sudeikis Went from SNL Writer to Cast Star Thanks to One Hilarious Sketch
Ever wonder how someone goes from writing jokes to performing them on live TV? Jason Sudeikis’s journey from Saturday Night Live writer to beloved cast member all came down to one sketch, one hosting gig, and a very funny dance as a Chicago Bears kicker.
The Backstory: A Writer Waiting in the Wings
Before he was Ted Lasso, before he was a movie star, Jason Sudeikis was just a writer at SNL.
- Joined as a writer: 2003
- Wrote for the show: Two seasons (Season 29 and 30)
- Dreamed of performing: But didn’t expect it to happen
Fun Fact: Lots of famous comedians started as SNL writers—like Tina Fey, Conan O’Brien, and Larry David—but not all of them get promoted to the cast.
The Big Break: Tom Brady’s One and Only Hosting Gig
In April 2005, NFL superstar Tom Brady hosted SNL for the first and only time.
Sudeikis had co-written a special sketch for the episode. He didn’t plan to be in it—but sometimes, the best opportunities sneak up on you.
The Sketch That Changed Everything
"Behind the Music: The Super Bowl Shuffle"
This parody sketch mocked the famous 1985 Chicago Bears music video, "The Super Bowl Shuffle."
| Role | Played By |
|---|---|
| Tom Brady | Himself (as a Bears player) |
| Kevin Butler (kicker) | Jason Sudeikis |
| Other Bears players | SNL cast members |
What Sudeikis did:
He danced goofily, committed 100% to the bit, and stole every scene he was in.
The result? The live audience laughed the hardest at him.
The Friday Meeting Where It All Happened
SNL has a big meeting every Friday before the show. Writers, producers, and Lorne Michaels (the boss) decide what sketches make the cut.
Here’s what went down:
- Sudeikis performs as Kevin Butler in the dress rehearsal.
- Producers notice: “That should be a cast member in there.”
- Tina Fey (head writer at the time) speaks up:
“Well, who else is gonna get those laughs?”
- Lorne Michaels agrees:
“You know, it’s a good point. Let’s just keep him in.”
- Sudeikis stays in the sketch—not as a writer, but as a performer.
Important Point:
This wasn’t a planned audition. Sudeikis was just doing his job as a writer—but his bold, funny choice made the decision for them.
From Writer to Cast Member in Two Weeks
After the Brady episode, SNL took a two-week break.
Then came the call:
- Saturday before the show returned, Lorne Michaels called Sudeikis.
- Lorne said: “We want to put you in the cast.”
- Sudeikis’s reaction: “Oh, dang!”
Just like that—he was a cast member.
What Happened Next: Eight Years of SNL Greatness
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Official cast debut | End of Season 30 (2005) |
| Tenure | 8 seasons (2005–2013) |
| Famous characters | Joe Biden, The Devil, Vance, “What Up With That” dancer |
| Legacy | One of the most versatile performers in SNL history |
Sudeikis later said he never expected the job—and just tried to keep up with legends like Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph, and Amy Poehler.
Lesson he learned:
“Pay attention to the people who carve the path slightly ahead of you.”
Where to Watch the Famous Sketch
Want to see the exact moment a writer became a star?
Stream it on Peacock
(Search: SNL Season 30, Tom Brady episode, “Behind the Music: The Super Bowl Shuffle”)
Summary
- Jason Sudeikis was an SNL writer for two years before becoming a cast member.
- His big break came during Tom Brady’s hosting episode in April 2005.
- He co-wrote and performed in a sketch called “Behind the Music: The Super Bowl Shuffle.”
- Playing kicker Kevin Butler, he danced wildly and got the biggest laughs.
- At the Friday meeting, Tina Fey and Lorne Michaels realized: He’s funnier on camera than anyone else we’d put there.
- Two weeks later, Lorne offered him a cast contract.
- He stayed for eight seasons and became an SNL icon.
FAQ
Did Jason Sudeikis audition to be on SNL?
Nope! He was hired as a writer. His promotion happened organically after producers saw him perform in a sketch he co-wrote.
What sketch got him promoted?
"Behind the Music: The Super Bowl Shuffle" — a parody of the 1985 Chicago Bears’ rap video. Sudeikis played kicker Kevin Butler and danced hilariously.
Who decided to make him a cast member?
Lorne Michaels (creator/executive producer) made the final call, but Tina Fey (then head writer) advocated for him, saying, “Who else is gonna get those laughs?”
How long was he on SNL?
Eight seasons — from 2005 to 2013.
Can I watch the sketch today?
Yes! It’s available to stream on Peacock (NBC’s streaming service). Look for SNL Season 30, Episode 17 (Tom Brady/April 2005).
Final Thought: Sometimes, doing your job with joy and courage—even when no one’s watching—can change your whole life. Jason Sudeikis didn’t try to become a star. He just danced like a goofy kicker… and the rest is history.
