Comedian Chris Kattan’s Next Chapter: Podcasting, ‘Saturday Night Live’ Memories and More

Comedian, actor and Saturday Night Live alum Chris Kattan has a lot on his plate these days. He’s working on a new stand-up routine, testing the waters of dramatic acting, and hosting his own comedy and variety show podcast.

On “Idiotically Speaking With Chris Kattan,” he and funny guys Andy Bolduc and Joey Nuñez talk with comedy luminaries, including Dana Carvey, Fred Armisen, Cecily Strong and Rachel Dratch, and find the funny in everyday things like karaoke, facial hair and Red Lobster.

“It’s totally different,” Chris, 54, exclusively tells Closer of podcasting. “It’s audio, not visual. And you’re not doing it for a live audience or for a camera.”

It’s also comedy without a net because nothing is scripted ahead of time.

“It’s always intrigued me to have my own podcast,” he says. “I thought it would be fun.”

When did you first realize you wanted to pursue comedy?

Probably in high school. When I did a pep [rally] assembly, I did an impression of one of the teachers. I just gained the courage. I found out that was the one thing I had some courage for.

Was that when you were living in Washington state? What was that like?

It’s not Los Angeles. Bainbridge Island is up in Washington. It’s this much smaller area and a smaller population. It’s not a big city, so I think it helped me focus on school.

As a young man, you were part of the Groundlings comedy troupe in Los Angeles.

Yeah. My father [voice actor Kip King] was one of the founders. He used to take me to go see the Groundlings when I was a kid.

Was your dad a big inspiration?

Yeah. He was very much a big reason why I got involved. He loved old movies and old-time radio shows. He brought me up watching classic films from the Marx Brothers to Abbott and Costello, Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. That’s what I was brought up watching. Then, at the Groundlings, [I saw] Phil Hartman and Paul Reubens perform, which was a great honor.

Can you remember the best advice your dad ever gave you?

Tomorrow is another day.

You were a cast member at SNL from 1996 to 2003. How did you get on the show?

I was at the Groundlings Theatre, and I was flown out by SNL producers. I auditioned along with Cheri [Oteri] and Will [Ferrell] and a few others, and I ended up getting asked to do SNL.

What do you miss most about SNL?

Oh, the companionship. Getting to see your fellow castmates every day and getting to create with them and come up with ideas. The best times of my life was on SNL. And so it’s great to reunite with them creatively on my new podcast. We’ve had Fred Armisen, Dana Carvey and Tim Meadows. Quite a few guest stars so far.

Do you enjoy those podcast interviews?

Yes, it’s like a reunion in some ways. To get to talk with them for a full hour is really special and unique. It’s really fun to get to play with them.

You’ve created some very memorable characters over the years. Do you have any favorites?

I think I like the ones that I shared with other people on stage best. Like in [the SNL recurring sketch] “Goth Talk,” where I played Azrael Abyss opposite Molly Shannon. I enjoy doing anything with other people.

Do you still tune in to SNL?

I do! I’m always excited to see what they’re going to come up with. And this year is the show’s 50th anniversary.

Have you noticed any big changes from when you were on the show?

I think there are a lot of things you can’t say anymore. I think the censorship is different, but it’s still hilarious. It’s still a funny show, so it hasn’t changed that drastically.

How has your comedy changed as you’ve gotten older?

I used to have a great deal of energy. Now, I don’t do crazy characters as much as I used to — although I still can. As you get older, your sense of humor changes and your lifestyle changes. Everything changes.

How would you describe this chapter of your life?

Jeez, that’s a loaded question! Well, I’m happy. I am at a different place in my life. I’m a different age and I’m going with those changes.

Your acting career seems headed in a more serious, dramatic direction.

Yeah, Angel City is a new movie I’m coming out with. It will be interesting to see what people think of me in a drama. It’s a different sort of role. He’s kind of a washed-up actor. I have a couple of good scenes, and they’re very well written. I really believe in this project.

On the personal front, you’re engaged to be married.

Yeah, we got engaged almost three years ago. We’re still planning [the wedding]. Still trying to set the date, but I think it will be [in 2025]. We’re still negotiating what kind of a wedding it will be!