HomeBen Marshall Promoted to SNL Cast: Spotlight on the PDD Member

Ben Marshall Promoted to SNL Cast: Spotlight on the PDD Member

Ben Marshall: A Rising Star in Season 51 of Saturday Night Live

Transitioning from Writer to Cast Member

Ben Marshall’s journey on Saturday Night Live (SNL) is set for a significant transformation as he steps into a new role for Season 51. Since joining the show as a writer in 2021, Marshall has captured attention through his work with the comedy trio, Please Don’t Destroy (PDD). This season, however, he will officially transition from behind-the-scenes to being featured as one of five new cast members, adding an exciting dimension to his career.

How to Watch the Premiere

If you’re eager to see Marshall and the new season in action, tune in for the Season 51 premiere on Saturday, October 4, at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC, or stream it on Peacock.

The Essence of Please Don’t Destroy

Before his ascent, Marshall, along with fellow PDD members Martin Herlihy and John Higgins, brought humor to SNL’s Digital Shorts—totaling 39 sketches between Seasons 47 and 50. These sketches, often situated in their shared office setting, frequently showcased the weekly host. The group gained viral fame during the pandemic, crafting engaging sketches about real-world topics such as vaccines and Zoom meetings, which resonated deeply with audiences.

A New Chapter after Departure

With Higgins announcing his departure from SNL on September 2, the future of Please Don’t Destroy initially seemed uncertain. However, NBC revealed that Marshall would be stepping into a Featured Player role, sparking excitement among fans eager to see what he brings to the live format of SNL.

The Origins of Marshall’s Fame

Hailing from a strong collaborative foundation, Marshall met Herlihy and Higgins while attending NYU. Their comedic trio, founded in 2017, gained traction with witty and relatable content, ultimately leading to their SNL involvement. Their first sketch on the iconic show, aired on October 9, 2021, introduced audiences to their unique comedic style—an exploration of bizarre beverage flavors that quickly became a fan favorite.

Breaking into the Mainstream

One of the hallmark sketches, “Three Sad Virgins,” featured high-profile cameos and showcased a delightful roast of the PDD trio. This sketch not only became viral but also set a precedent for celebrity interactions with the group, highlighting the blend of humor and star power that defines SNL. Their knack for combining guesswork and creativity extended to sketches involving characters like Shrek and Squidward, further establishing their comedic range.

Film and Television Ventures

Marshall’s talents extend beyond sketch comedy. In 2023, PDD starred in Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain, where Marshall comically took on the role of “Ben.” He also made a notable appearance in the acclaimed series Poker Face, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Upcoming projects include a role in the comedy film 72 Hours, alongside Kevin Hart and fellow SNL newbies.

Continued Collaboration and Future Prospects

While the structure of PDD may be evolving, their camaraderie remains intact. Marshall has assured fans that the group is not breaking up; they are merely entering a new phase. On Instagram, he expressed deep gratitude for his time working alongside his friends, emphasizing their commitment to continuing collaborations—even amidst individual pursuits within SNL.

A Fresh Take on the Iconic Show

As Marshall prepares to embrace his new role as a Featured Player in Season 51, he will join fellow newcomers Veronika Slowikowska, Jeremy Culhane, Tommy Brennan, and Kam Patterson. This season promises to be a refreshing take on SNL, enriched by new talent and innovative ideas. Fans can look forward to seeing how Marshall integrates his unique comedic style into live sketches, marking an exciting chapter in the enduring legacy of Saturday Night Live.

With a fresh start on the horizon and a rich background in comedy, Ben Marshall is poised to make waves in the iconic realm of late-night television.

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