Tina Fey has acknowledged that some of her past jokes during her time on Saturday Night Live “missed the mark,” reflecting on how her perspective on comedy has evolved over the years.
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Speaking at the History Talks event in Philadelphia, Fey candidly admitted that not all of her earlier work would meet her current standards. “I was pretty dumb,” she said, emphasizing that growth and hindsight have shaped how she now views humor and responsibility in comedy.
Tina Fey joined Saturday Night Live in 1997 and later became the show’s head writer, playing a key role in shaping its tone during a period marked by major national events. She recalled working through challenging moments such as the first broadcast after the September 11 attacks, the anthrax scare, and even a visit from former US president George W. Bush.
Over time, Fey noted, the line between comedy and real-world politics became increasingly blurred, with sketches often prompting reactions from public figures themselves. One of her most notable contributions came during the 2008 election cycle, when she collaborated with Seth Meyers and Amy Poehler on widely recognized sketches portraying Sarah Palin.
Fey explained that the team aimed to ensure their satire remained grounded in truth. “If it’s not true, it will not be funny,” she said, highlighting the importance of authenticity in effective comedy.
Reflecting on the show’s influence, Fey described it as both exciting and intimidating to know their work could resonate with audiences, including those in positions of power. She clarified that the goal was never to shape political narratives, though she admitted some jokes did not age well.
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The event also featured appearances by Nicole Kidman, Ted Danson, Kate McKinnon, and Colin Jost, among others, as part of celebrations marking the nation’s 250th anniversary.