Former Saturday Night Live cast member Beck Bennett recently opened up about a surprisingly emotional moment involving current cast member Sarah Sherman. Sherman, upon joining the show in Season 47, reportedly declared Bennett as “everyone’s favorite” cast member, a comment that elicited a deeply felt response from Bennett, who had departed the show after Season 46.

The backstory is poignant. Bennett and Sherman’s tenures on SNL barely overlapped. Bennett, a fixture on the show for eight seasons, had already moved on when Sherman arrived, bringing with her a wave of stories and anecdotes about his time on the show. It seems Sherman had heard countless positive remarks about Bennett’s contributions and comedic talent, leading her to make the heartfelt statement that caught him off guard.

In an interview, Bennett explained that Sherman’s comment triggered a flood of emotions, particularly a sense of nostalgia and gratitude for his years at SNL. “It was really lovely,” he said. “It was a very emotional response. It’s just… you spend so much time doing something, and then you leave, and you don’t know if people even remember you or if you made any difference.”

Bennett’s reaction highlights the unique dynamic of Saturday Night Live. The show’s rapid turnover of cast members means that even those who’ve left can have a lasting impact on those who follow. Sherman’s innocent compliment served as a powerful reminder of the legacy Bennett built during his time on the show, a legacy of consistent humor and memorable characters.

The story also speaks to the enduring power of positive recognition. After dedicating years to a demanding and often unpredictable career, hearing that his work resonated so deeply with audiences and colleagues was clearly a validating and moving experience for Bennett. It’s a testament to his talent and the positive impression he left on the SNL community.

While Bennett’s departure from SNL marked the end of an era for many viewers, this anecdote serves as a heartwarming reminder of the camaraderie and mutual respect that exists within the show’s walls. And it proves that even a simple compliment can have a profound impact, especially when it comes from a colleague who carries on the tradition of making audiences laugh.

Sherman, a rising star on SNL, continues to deliver consistently hilarious performances, further solidifying the show's reputation for comedic excellence. And Bennett, while pursuing other creative endeavors, clearly holds a special place in his heart for his time at SNL, a sentiment beautifully reflected in his reaction to Sherman's kind words.