The 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live was a star-studded celebration, with everyone from Paul McCartney to Kim Kardashian packing the stage and screens. But fans were quick to notice one glaring absence: Bill Hader.
A fan favorite from 2005 to 2013, Hader’s absence sparked speculation. Where was Stefon? Why wasn’t he part of a celebration of the very show that helped launch his career?
Now, the Barry star is speaking up. During an appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Hader revealed the real reason he bowed out: anxiety. He was invited to film a short about SNL cast members dealing with anxiety, ironically—but turned it down because the topic hit too close to home.
“Andy [Samberg] pitched it to me and I said, ‘I can’t… I’m too anxious,’” Hader admitted. “It was a little too real.”
Hader has long been candid about his struggles with anxiety, especially during his SNL run, describing panic attacks backstage before live shows.
While fans missed his presence, Hader’s honesty is a powerful reminder: mental health comes first, even for comedy legends.
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