The Please Don’t Destroy Split: A Harbinger of Change in the Sketch Comedy Landscape
The recent disbanding of Please Don’t Destroy (PDD) from Saturday Night Live isn’t just a cast shakeup; it’s a potential inflection point for how comedy is created, consumed, and monetized in the digital age. While the departure of John Higgins, with Martin Herlihy and Ben Marshall charting new paths, feels like the end of an era for fans, it simultaneously illuminates a growing trend: the rise of the independent comedy collective and the increasing value of creator control – even within the established framework of a show like SNL.
From NYU Basement to Studio 8H: The PDD Trajectory
PDD’s story – meeting at NYU, building a following online, and then being brought into the SNL machine – is increasingly representative of how talent is discovered and integrated into traditional media. Their success wasn’t built on the traditional SNL audition process, but on a pre-existing, engaged audience cultivated through platforms like YouTube and Instagram. This shift in power dynamics is crucial. SNL, historically a gatekeeper, is now actively scouting and incorporating creators who’ve already proven their ability to connect with viewers. Their viral sketches, like those featuring the “Murder Mystery” format, weren’t just hits on SNL; they lived and thrived beyond the broadcast, driving views and engagement on social media – a metric increasingly important to networks.
The Creator Economy and the Allure of Independence
John Higgins’ decision to pursue acting opportunities, coupled with the continued writing role for Herlihy and Marshall’s move to a featured player position, highlights the pull of the creator economy. While SNL offers prestige and a massive platform, it also demands a significant time commitment and, arguably, limits creative control. The ability to own one’s content, build a direct relationship with an audience, and diversify income streams is becoming increasingly attractive to comedic talent. This isn’t about rejecting traditional media entirely, but about strategically leveraging it while maintaining independence. PDD’s upcoming tour, continuing even after the split, is a prime example of this – capitalizing on their established brand while operating outside the SNL structure.
Winnie the Pooh and the Power of Online Persona
The playful online reaction to the split, particularly the Winnie the Pooh references, underscores another key trend: the importance of cultivating a strong online persona. The humorously self-aware posts from Higgins, Herlihy (and his passionate defense of Pooh!), and Marshall weren’t just personal updates; they were carefully crafted content designed to engage their fanbase and reinforce their brand. This ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, to participate in online conversations, and to build a community is a skill that’s becoming increasingly valuable for comedians. It’s a form of marketing, yes, but it’s also about authenticity and building genuine connections.
SNL’s Response: Adapting to a Changing Landscape
Lorne Michael’s promised shakeups at SNL aren’t simply about cost-cutting; they’re about adapting to a rapidly evolving comedy landscape. The show faces increasing competition from streaming services, YouTube channels, TikTok creators, and independent podcasts. Bringing in talent like PDD was a step in the right direction, but retaining that talent requires offering more flexibility and creative control. The appointment of Ben Marshall as a featured player suggests a willingness to experiment with different formats and to integrate creators more fully into the SNL ecosystem. However, the challenge remains: how to balance the demands of a live broadcast show with the needs of creators accustomed to a more agile, independent workflow?
The Future of Sketch Comedy: Hybrid Models and Direct-to-Fan Approaches
The PDD split may foreshadow a future where sketch comedy increasingly exists in hybrid models. We’re likely to see more creators using established platforms like SNL as launching pads, while simultaneously building their own independent channels and pursuing diverse projects. Direct-to-fan approaches, such as Patreon subscriptions, exclusive content, and live performances, will become increasingly common. The success of creators like Bo Burnham, who seamlessly blends traditional and digital media, demonstrates the potential of this model. Burnham’s “Inside”, created entirely during the pandemic, exemplifies the power of independent creation and direct audience engagement.
Ultimately, the story of Please Don’t Destroy is a microcosm of the broader shifts happening in the entertainment industry. The power is shifting towards creators, audiences are demanding more authenticity, and the lines between traditional and digital media are blurring. SNL, and other established institutions, will need to continue adapting to survive – and thrive – in this new landscape.
What are your predictions for the future of sketch comedy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
