Why Frankie Muniz Rejected Offer to Be One of the Youngest SNL Hosts

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Frankie Muniz was once caught in the middle of a career dilemma involving Amanda Bynes.

In the year 2000, as I stepped into the world of “Malcolm in the Middle” alongside Muniz, an exciting opportunity arose: hosting Saturday Night Live. However, due to a clash in schedules, the 14-year-old me found myself torn. Yet, I chose to follow my heart over the allure of the stage.

Muniz shared on the September 2 episode of the Lightweights Podcast that he had been invited to co-host the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. He also mentioned that Amanda Bynes was another host, and he was thrilled about the opportunity to meet her, describing it as a significant moment for him.

In a turn of events, the 39-year-old, who admitted to having harbored a significant crush on the Amanda Show star during his childhood years, found himself presented with yet another job offer.

One day, Muniz’s mom received a call and was clearly excited and anxious. It was Gail Berman, who was the president of Fox at the time. She said, “You’ve been asked to host Saturday Night Live!” Muniz replied, “What’s that?” To which Berman responded, “You’ll be one of the youngest people ever to do so.” In simpler terms, Muniz’s mom received a call from Gail Berman, who was the president of Fox. Berman informed Muniz that they had been asked to host Saturday Night Live, and this was an opportunity that would make them one of the youngest hosts in history.

As a devoted enthusiast, I found myself in a quandary last time when the filming schedule for the iconic Saturday Night Live (SNL) conflicted with the awards ceremony. Notably, SNL had Drew Barrymore, who was only seven at the time and the youngest host ever, during its run in 1982. Quite an interesting turn of events!

He responded, ‘Uh-uh, not a chance! I’m heading to the Kids’ Choice Awards.’ It doesn’t matter, he’s set on seeing Amanda there at the awards.

The NASCAR driver shared that his mother expressed her surprise by saying, “Wait, wait, you don’t get it. This is a major event!” For roughly ten days following this, he faced a barrage of questions from various executives, producers, and personnel at both Fox TV and Regency TV, asking him why he was participating in such an endeavor.

But he stood his ground.

Muniz reminisced, “I wasn’t one to shirk duties, especially when I had already agreed to something publicly. They had been broadcasting my commercial, implying I would be the co-host.

In the end, Bynes wasn’t the co-host for the Kids’ Choice Awards alongside Muniz, but she did step in as a presenter instead. Interestingly, the show was actually co-hosted by LL Cool J, David Arquette, and Mandy Moore, with Rosie O’Donnell taking on the role of the main host.

Despite later working with Bynes in the 2002 film “Big Fat Liar”, Muniz has not had the opportunity to host Saturday Night Live as of yet.

To look back at celebs who have made a splash on SNL, keep reading.

As a devoted admirer, I jokingly touched upon my past with ex Kanye West, my links to O.J. Simpson, and my sister Kourtney Kardashian’s passionate courtship with Travis Barker. However, the highlight of my antics was undeniably an Aladdin-themed skit where I shared a smooch with cast member Pete Davidson. Our relationship unfolded for approximately nine months following that magical moment on stage.

With 10 hosting appearances to his credit, including the initial remote-filmed episode during the coronavirus pandemic back in April 2020, it’s clear that when Bill Murray is at Studio 8H, it’s bound to be a delightful experience. Unconvinced? Just remember these three words: David S. Pumpkins.

In 2008, Hamm captivated audiences with his impressive comedy skills during his debut hosting stint. Since then, he’s hosted twice more and made unexpected appearances on various occasions.

From his memorable “John Hamm’s Jon Ham” skit – that’s the lunch meat you eat while on the toilet humor – to his live-action portrayal of Ace in an adaptation of the renowned Ambiguously Gay Duo animated bit, he has won over the cast in a way very few other hosts have ever managed.

As a devoted admirer, I firmly believe there’s no one more dedicated to their craft on this entire planet than the legendary figure from “Bridesmaids.” Take, for instance, the “Taste Test” sketch during her debut as host in 2011, where she doused herself in Hidden Valley ranch dressing as a joke. Such dedication and creativity truly set her apart!

Within just over 10 years, she has become a member of the well-known Five-Timers Club, and started appearing frequently, especially during the agitated stint of Sean Spicer, during his time in the Trump administration.

Almost every celebrity on this list was nearly ready to permanently join the cast of Saturday Night Live, given their impressive performances. For a while, Justin Timberlake particularly seemed like he could be. From “Omletteville,” “Dk in a Box,” and “Barry Gibb Talk Show” to “Mother Lover,” each time Timberlake hosted, he created moments that significantly impacted pop culture. Additionally, his appearance as one of Beyonce’s backup dancers for “Single Ladies” alongside Bobby Moynihan and Andy Samberg was just fantastic.

Few individuals have had the privilege of hosting Saturday Night Live (SNL) more times than the iconic comedian, and interestingly enough, there’s just one who holds that title. Over his 16 appearances in Studio 8H from 1976 to 2009, he crafted unforgettable characters like the “wild and crazy” Festrunk Brothers and King Tut. Moreover, one of the show’s most poignant moments occurred when he paid tribute to Gilda Radner’s passing from cancer by recalling a joyful dance they shared within the studio.

Apart from being linked romantically with Colin Jost, Scarlett Johansson is now considered a part of the Saturday Night Live (SNL) family as well. Over the years since her first appearance in 2006, she has left an unforgettable mark on the show by creating several memorable moments during her six hosting stints.

As a dedicated stand-in when needed, I’ve been filling the shoes of Ivanka Trump on the show. I had the chance to work alongside the brilliant Kate McKinnon in the bizarre Shud the Mermaid skit, and also portrayed Lexi, the daughter character to Fred Armisen’s Mark, in our popular sketch where we promote various home decor items like chandeliers, ceramic busts, marble columns, and porcelain fountains.

Instead of all others listed, the late TV icon graced Saturday Night Live (SNL) only once, making her the oldest host in the show’s history at 88 years old. This remarkable event transpired due to a successful Facebook campaign driven by fans following her role in The Proposal. What sets her apart is her side-splitting humor, earning her a spot on this list. A standout sketch from that episode features Tina Fey’s census taker attempting unsuccessfully to extract straightforward answers from White in an absurd skit.

Johnson swiftly secured a place on that list the moment he accepted the challenge for “The Rock Obama.” This single decision was more than enough to confirm his membership in the Five Timer’s Club.

Baldwin, without an official contract, is perhaps the most synonymous star with Saturday Night Live (SNL), having performed in 17 hosting roles and numerous times as former President Donald Trump, among other characters. From memorable skits like Canteen Boy and Schweddy Balls to impressions of Tony Bennett and yes, Trump, Baldwin has offered countless amusing moments during his numerous appearances at Studio 8H over the years.

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2025-09-12 20:47