David Spade reflects on SNL career and past conflicts

Comedian David Spade has shared candid reflections on his tenure at Saturday Night Live (SNL) from 1990 to 1996, discussing professional jealousy and past conflicts with colleagues.

Speaking on his Fly On the Wall podcast, Spade admitted to feeling jealous of cast members who received more airtime. He noted that he would often tell Adam Sandler, ‘That was funny, I’m so jealous,’ as a way to acknowledge strong performances while using the competition to improve his own comedy.

Spade also addressed a long-standing tension with Eddie Murphy. He described a period where Murphy reportedly ‘hated’ him following a joke on Weekend Update that Murphy deemed ‘racist.’ Spade expressed guilt over the incident at the time, noting he did not defend himself because he viewed Murphy as a hero. The two have since reconciled, having spoken during the SNL 50th anniversary special.

Additionally, Spade remarked on the changing culture of the show, expressing surprise at current cast members' ability to communicate directly with creator Lorne Michaels.