Office of the Vice President for Research

 

The Harry Ransom Center is pleased to announce a new archive focused on Saturday Night Live and Lorne Michaels. The collection will be fully available for research in January 2026. Researchers interested in studying the archive (or any other archive at the Ransom Center) should plan to submit a fellowship application to the Harry Ransom Center. The fellowship competition will be announced soon and applications will be due in November 2025.

Fellowships: Harry Ransom Center

Spanning over 50 years, this extraordinary archive highlights Michaels's groundbreaking contributions to television comedy, from his early writing on Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In to the iconic sketches and performances that have shaped American culture through Saturday Night Live (SNL)—the most Emmy-nominated show in TV history.

The collection also celebrates Michaels's influence beyond SNL, showcasing his work on hit shows like The Kids in the Hall, as well as films like Wayne's World and Mean Girls. Through these projects, Michaels has nurtured generations of comedic talent, shaping the careers of performers like Gilda Radner, John Belushi, Eddie Murphy, Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler and Bill Murray while leaving an indelible mark on entertainment.

From rehearsal notes and sketches to annotated scripts and personal correspondence, the archive offers an intimate view of Michaels's creative process and the collaborative spirit that has driven his success. Now part of the Harry Ransom Center's renowned collection, this archive ensures that his legacy will inspire future storytellers, comedians, and creators for generations to come.

A special exhibition, Live from New York! The Making of Lorne Michaels (September 20, 2025 – March 15, 2026), will offer an exclusive look behind the scenes of SNL and its influence on society. More information on the exhibition will be made available soon.

You can learn more here:

The Lorne Michaels Collection