Bill Hader reveals the secret! He did not go to SNL50 due to anxiety, how he made an Emmy-winning performance out of a panic attack!
“I couldn’t go”
Bill Hader finally revealed why he didn’t attend SNL’s 50th anniversary celebration!
“My PR said ‘schedule conflict,’ but the truth is I had anxiety,” he revealed on Seth Meyers’ show.
Bill said he gets nervous at crowded events, “I didn’t want to go there and have a panic attack.”
Friends supported him
Seth Meyers praised Bill’s decision. Andy Samberg even created a sketch for SNL50 that poked fun at the cast members’ anxiety!
But Bill refused to participate in that as well.
“When Andy told me, I was shaking… just thinking about it!” Bill said laughing.
Lorne Michaels’ straight answer
According to Susan Morrison’s biography, SNL creator Lorne Michaels once scolded Bill before hosting, saying, “Please calm down!”
Bill admitted that he had panic attacks many times during the show, “I used to shake in front of the camera, my heart would start beating fast.”
Art from pain
Interestingly, Bill used this experience of his in HBO’s hit show ‘Barry’!
His character also suffers from panic attacks. “My own experience prepared me for this role,” Bill said.
He has received several Emmy nominations for this role!
Mental health is important
Bill’s revelation reminds us that even famous celebrities struggle with mental health problems.
If you or someone you know is going through such problems, then definitely seek help.
You can speak to a certified crisis counselor by texting “STRENGTH” to 741-741.
“I learned that sometimes it’s okay to say ‘no’, even if it’s the biggest show in the world,” Bill says.
His honesty may give many people the courage to talk openly about their mental health.
Summary:
Bill Hader missed SNL50 due to anxiety, not a schedule conflict. He used his panic attacks in ‘Barry’ to remind everyone that mental health comes first!