Legendary Saturday Night Live author Jim Downey is the subject of a new documentary coming to Peacock on October 17th.
Titled “Downee Written It,” the one-hour film highlights the longest-running author sketches, comedy voices and lasting influences in the history of “SNL.” Downey took part in the show in the second season in 1976, writing 30 seasons in four stints in Studio 8H. He is known as the “behind the scenes comedy architect” for “SNL” and wrote some of the show’s most iconic sketches, quoteable lines, and biting political satires. He is a five-time Emmy winner for his work on the show, including the 2025 50th Anniversary Special.
It features interviews with “Downey Written That” and “SNL” alumni and other comedic figures. Alphabetical order: Fred Armisen, Andy Breckman, Dana Kerrvey, Greg Daniels, Will Forte, Al Franken, Bill Hader, Darrell Hammond, David Letterman, John Lovitz, Seth Myers, Lorne Michaels, Garrett Morris, John Moolaney, Laline Newman, Conan O’Brien, Bob OdenkenRudolph, Molly Shannon, Martin Short, Robert Smigel, David Spade, Emily Spivey, Ben Stiller, Kenan Thompson.
Downey is the mastermind behind the “Chippendale” sketch, and many of George W. Bush and Norm MacDonald’s “Weekend Updates” as the provocative OJ Simpson material. Outside of “SNL,” Downey has a memorable acting role as “Billie Madison” principal and recently appeared in “The Next Battle” as “Christmas Adventurer” Sandy Irvine.
This document is produced by Broadway Video in connection with Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of the Universal Studio Group. Michaels’ executives are produced with Susan Morrison, Andy Breckman, Erin David, Eddie Michaels, Oz Rodriguez and Brent Hodge. A joint produce of Derrick Murray and Brian Gersh.
“SNL” returns to NBC on Saturday, October 4th, with host Bad Bunny and musical guest Doja Cat. Next week, she will feature role model Amy Poehler with music, and Sabrina Carpenter will take out double duty on October 18th.
