Comedian, actor, and former Saturday Night Live star Chris Kattan is juggling a lot these days. Between crafting a new stand-up routine, dipping his toes into dramatic acting, and hosting a comedy and variety show podcast, Chris is keeping his creative juices flowing. At 54, he’s proving that age is just a number and there’s plenty more to come from this comedy legend.
Idiotically Speaking With Chris Kattan is the podcast where Chris teams up with fellow funny guys Andy Bolduc and Joey Nuñez to chat with comedy icons like Dana Carvey, Fred Armisen, Cecily Strong, and Rachel Dratch. They dive into everything from the art of karaoke to the wonders of facial hair and the timeless allure of Red Lobster. It's a show that celebrates the humor in everyday life, all while paying homage to the legends who paved the way.
“Podcasting feels like a whole new world,” Chris exclusively tells Closer. “It’s all about audio, not visuals. And you’re not performing for a live audience or for a camera—it’s a different kind of energy.”
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For Chris, the beauty of podcasting lies in its spontaneity. Nothing is scripted, which means every episode is an adventure. “It’s always intrigued me to have my own podcast,” he says. “I thought it would be fun to just let things flow and see where the conversation takes us.”
From High School Pep Rallies to SNL: Chris's Journey to Comedy
Chris’s love for comedy started early, way back in high school. “I remember doing an impression of one of my teachers during a pep rally assembly,” he recalls. “It was nerve-wracking, but it gave me the courage to pursue this path. I realized that performing was something I could really lean into.”
And while Bainbridge Island, Washington—where Chris grew up—might not be the bustling entertainment hub of Los Angeles, it offered him a unique perspective. “It’s a much smaller place, so it helped me focus on school and my craft,” he says. “But it also gave me the space to dream big.”
Grounded by the Groundlings
Chris’s connection to comedy runs deep, thanks in part to his father, voice actor Kip King, who was one of the founding members of the legendary Groundlings comedy troupe in Los Angeles. “My dad used to take me to Groundlings shows when I was a kid,” Chris says. “Watching performers like Phil Hartman and Paul Reubens was an incredible experience. They were my idols, and they inspired me to follow in their footsteps.”
His father’s influence didn’t stop there. “He was a huge fan of old movies and radio shows,” Chris explains. “We’d watch classics from the Marx Brothers to Abbott and Costello, Charlie Chaplin, and Buster Keaton. Those films shaped my sense of humor and my approach to comedy.”
The Best Advice Chris Ever Received
When asked about the most valuable lesson his dad taught him, Chris’s response is simple but profound: “Tomorrow is another day.” It’s advice that has carried him through the ups and downs of a long and storied career.
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Life After SNL: Reuniting with Old Friends
Chris’s seven-year stint on Saturday Night Live (1996–2003) was a defining chapter in his career. “I was at the Groundlings Theatre when SNL producers flew me out for an audition,” he recalls. “I ended up joining the cast alongside legends like Cheri Oteri and Will Ferrell. It was a dream come true.”
While Chris cherishes the camaraderie and creativity of his time on SNL, he’s thrilled to reunite with old friends on his podcast. “Getting to spend an hour with someone like Fred Armisen or Dana Carvey is a real treat,” he says. “It’s like a reunion, and it’s so much fun to collaborate with them again.”
Memorable Characters and the Evolution of Comedy
Over the years, Chris has created some unforgettable characters, including Azrael Abyss from the recurring SNL sketch “Goth Talk,” which he performed alongside Molly Shannon. “I love working with other people on stage,” he says. “Those collaborative moments are always the most rewarding.”
As for the current state of comedy, Chris acknowledges the changes. “There’s definitely more censorship these days, but the show is still as funny as ever,” he notes. “It’s exciting to see how SNL continues to evolve, especially with its 50th anniversary this year.”
A New Chapter: Serious Acting and Personal Milestones
While Chris is still deeply rooted in comedy, he’s
