Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Lorne Michaels

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 17, 2026

Discover the career path of Lorne Michaels, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Lorne Michaels is a highly influential figure in television history, renowned as the creator and producer of Saturday Night Live (SNL). His impact extends beyond SNL, as he's also produced other successful shows like 'Late Night,' 'The Kids in the Hall,' and 'The Tonight Show.' Michaels' career reflects a keen eye for talent and comedic sensibilities, shaping the landscape of American comedy and late-night television for decades. His work has launched the careers of countless comedians and writers, solidifying his status as a key figure in entertainment.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1968: Moves to Los Angeles

In 1968, Lorne Michaels and Hart Pomerantz moved from Toronto to Los Angeles to work as writers for Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In and The Beautiful Phyllis Diller Show.

1973: Lorne Michaels Writes for The Burns and Schreiber Comedy Hour

In 1973, Lorne Michaels returned to the United States to write for The Burns and Schreiber Comedy Hour, which led to him producing specials for Lily Tomlin and gaining the credibility to create Saturday Night Live.

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1975: Creation of Saturday Night Live

In 1975, Lorne Michaels created and produced Saturday Night Live.

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November 20, 1976: George Harrison Appearance on SNL

On November 20, 1976, George Harrison appeared on Saturday Night Live attempting to collect the money offered to The Beatles, but Lorne Michaels stated the offer was conditional on all four members appearing.

1978: Paramount Deal Offered

During the 1978-1979 season of SNL, Lorne Michaels was offered a deal to produce nine features from Paramount.

1979: Turns Down Paramount Deal

During the 1978-1979 season of SNL, Lorne Michaels turned down a deal to produce nine features from Paramount and takes a three-picture deal from Warner Bros.

1979: Broadway Video Founded

In 1979, Lorne Michaels founded the production company Broadway Video.

1980: Saturday Night Live Production End

In 1980, Lorne Michaels stopped producing Saturday Night Live, but resumed production in 1985.

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1981: SNL Produced by Broadway Video

Since 1981, Saturday Night Live has been produced by Broadway Video, founded by Lorne Michaels.

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January 1984: The New Show Debuts

In January 1984, Lorne Michaels' sketch show, The New Show, debuted on NBC. It was cancelled after 9 episodes.

1984: 1985 Spoof

In the early 80s, Lorne Michaels had a deal to produce movies for MGM, including a spoof of 1984 called 1985 that was set in the future.

1985: Saturday Night Live Production Resumes

In 1985, Lorne Michaels resumed producing Saturday Night Live after a hiatus.

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1985: 1985 movie not released

In the early 80s, Lorne Michaels had a deal to produce movies for MGM, including a spoof of 1984 called 1985 that was set in the future. The movie was not released.