Conan O'Brien Reflects on SNL Burnout and Career Regrets

The comedian and former late-night host wishes he had embraced more fun during his intense stint as a writer on 'Saturday Night Live.'

O'Brien worked at 'Saturday Night Live' from 1988 to 1991, a period he now feels was overly intense and led to burnout.
He discussed his experiences on a recent podcast episode with guest Tom Hanks, admitting he 'robbed' himself of potential enjoyment.
O'Brien left 'SNL' to write for 'The Simpsons' before becoming a prominent late-night host on 'Late Night' starting in 1993.
Despite having fun, O'Brien believes he could have extended his time at 'SNL' by not making it such a grind.
Lorne Michaels, the creator of 'SNL,' provided O'Brien with unique opportunities to produce his own sketches, which was rare for young writers.