Jay Pharoah on SNL & the Art of Becoming Someone Else

In this high-energy, laugh-out-loud episode, comedian and former Saturday Night Live star Jay Pharoah joins the show for a masterclass in impressions, storytelling, and the mindset it takes to thrive in comedy. Sitting down with legendary voice actress Nancy Cartwright, Jay brings nonstop humor, razor-sharp talent, and surprising depth to a conversation that blends entertainment with real insight into the craft. From the very start, Jay showcases the skill that made him famous—effortlessly transforming into iconic voices like Denzel Washington and Eddie Murphy. But beyond the laughs, he breaks down his creative process in a way that’s rarely heard. According to Jay, mastering an impression doesn’t start with the voice—it starts with the laugh. He explains that a person’s laugh is the most authentic and unique part of their identity, serving as the blueprint for everything else that follows, from mannerisms to tone. The episode dives deep into what it really means to “become” a character. Jay describes how fully imagining a person speaking in real time allows him to morph into them naturally, creating performances that feel alive rather than forced. This philosophy gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how elite impressionists operate—and why Jay stands out as one of the best. Of course, the conversation also explores Jay’s journey to Saturday Night Live. He shares how his path wasn’t immediate success, but a grind filled with small gigs, YouTube videos, and persistence. After initially being passed over, his second audition landed him a spot on the show—proving that timing and perseverance are everything. His breakthrough moment came when he realized he was officially part of television history, standing on stage as a cast member and hearing the audience react to his work. Jay also reflects on what SNL taught him beyond comedy. One of his biggest takeaways? The power of relationships. He emphasizes that building genuine connections with people in the industry can shape your entire career, often opening doors years down the line. It’s a grounded, practical lesson for anyone pursuing success in entertainment or any creative field. The episode balances these deeper insights with plenty of humor and spontaneity. From rapid-fire impression games to absurdly funny donut taste tests, Jay keeps the energy unpredictable and entertaining. His ability to switch characters on command creates moments that feel both impressive and hilarious, keeping listeners engaged from start to finish. Beyond the comedy, Jay shares his perspective on purpose and impact. For him, making people laugh isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about giving people a break from their problems, even if only for a moment. That mindset adds a meaningful layer to his work and highlights the emotional connection behind great comedy. Whether you’re a fan of impressions, aspiring to break into comedy, or just looking for a genuinely fun and insightful conversation, this episode delivers. Jay Pharoah brings both talent and authenticity, offering a rare glimpse into what it takes to succeed while staying true to your voice. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices