Bill Hader has confirmed that his absence from the Saturday Night Live 50th anniversary special was due to anxiety, not a scheduling conflict as previously believed. The Emmy-winning actor and comedian, who was a cast member on SNL from 2005 to 2013, opened up about the challenges he faced with anxiety during his time on the show and how those feelings resurfaced at the prospect of returning for the reunion.
He explained that he was invited by Andy Samberg to appear in a digital short called “Anxiety,” which would have poked fun at the very issue that kept him from participating. Hader declined, saying he didn’t feel comfortable, and the part was ultimately given to another cast member. He also passed on attending the special in person, choosing instead to appear only in a promotional commercial.
Hader recalled experiencing severe panic attacks before going on stage during his SNL years, describing how the live format and high pressure affected him physically and emotionally. While he admired fellow cast members who thrived under that pressure, he admitted it was never something he could fully overcome.
His decision to skip the reunion wasn’t taken lightly, but he emphasized that it was necessary for his mental health. Despite his absence, he expressed support and admiration for his former colleagues and the legacy of the show.
