In 1980 Lorne Michaels departed as producer of the sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live, which he had cocreated in 1975. He reportedly wanted to take time away from the show to rest and to produce movies in Hollywood. Michaels was rehired as the show’s executive producer in 1985, a role he has remained in ever since. In 2025 SNL celebrated its 50th anniversary, and Michaels indicated that he has no plans to retire.