Former *Saturday Night Live* (SNL) star Andy Samberg has never been one to shy away from sharing his honest and humorous takes on the iconic sketch comedy show. 

Recently, the comedian opened up about his experience working on the long-running NBC series 

and gave some particularly candid thoughts on one of its key behind-the-scenes systems: cue cards. 

Samberg, in his signature style, referred to the system as “psychotic,” sparking laughter and intrigue among fans.   

*Saturday Night Live* has long been known for its fast-paced production schedule. 

With a live broadcast every Saturday night and new sketches written, rehearsed, and performed within just a few days, 

the show is a finely tuned machine. Integral to this system is the use of handwritten cue cards, a tradition that has been a hallmark of the show since its inception in 1975.  

For decades, cast members, hosts, and guest performers have relied on these cue cards to deliver lines during live performances. While teleprompters are common in many other live productions, SNL’s reliance on cue cards is an enduring quirk.  

However, for Samberg, the system was anything but straightforward. In a recent interview, the comedian described the experience of using cue cards as “psychotic” and revealed that the fast-paced nature of the process often added to the pressure of live performances.  

Samberg, who was a cast member on SNL from 2005 to 2012, became a fan favorite for his innovative digital shorts and comedic sketches. Reflecting on his time at the show, he expressed both admiration for and bewilderment at how the cue card system has endured for so long.  

“The way they do cue cards is completely insane,” Samberg said. “It’s these massive handwritten cards, and they’re just flipping them right in front of you while you’re trying to keep it together on live television. It’s psychotic, but it’s also kind of magical.”  

Despite his critique, Samberg acknowledged that the system often added to the charm of the show. The imperfections, including occasional missed lines or misread cards, contributed to the unpredictable and authentic energy that has kept audiences tuning in for nearly 50 years.  

For cast members, adapting to the cue card system is often a rite of passage. Samberg admitted that it took him time to get used to reading lines off the cards while maintaining eye contact with his fellow performers and the audience.  

“It’s such a unique challenge,” he explained. “You’re trying to stay in character, hit your marks, and then there’s this guy flipping cards in your peripheral vision. It’s chaotic, but that’s what makes it so special.”  

Many former cast members and hosts have shared similar sentiments about the system. Some embrace it as part of the show’s charm, while others find it nerve-wracking. Either way, it’s a tradition that remains a core part of SNL’s identity.  

Despite advances in technology, SNL has resisted replacing cue cards with teleprompters. Producers argue that the cards allow for greater flexibility during live performances, particularly when last-minute changes are needed.  

The cue card team, led by veteran supervisor Wally Feresten, is renowned for their ability to adapt on the fly. Feresten and his crew often write and rewrite cards moments before sketches go live, ensuring that performers have the most up-to-date lines.  

“It’s old school, but it works,” Samberg admitted. “There’s something about it that just feels right for SNL. It’s part of what makes the show so unique.”  

While Samberg’s description of the cue card system as “psychotic” might sound harsh, it’s clear that his comments come from a place of affection and respect for the show that helped launch his career.  

SNL’s cue card tradition is emblematic of the show’s ability to blend chaos with creativity, resulting in a live television experience unlike any other. For Samberg and countless others who have graced the SNL stage, it’s a challenge they’ll never forget—and one that continues to captivate audiences week after week.  

As Samberg put it, “It’s crazy, but that’s SNL. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”  

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