**Four Famous Comedians Rejected by SNL: Shocking Audition Stories**

UPDATE: Four renowned comedians, including Kevin Hart and Jim Carrey, faced rejection from Saturday Night Live (SNL) after unforgettable auditions that left fans questioning what could have been. These revelations are making headlines as fans react to the surprising news.

In the competitive landscape of comedy, SNL has launched countless careers over its 50-year history. However, some notable names did not make the cut during their auditions, leading to fascinating stories that highlight the unpredictable nature of show business.

Kevin Hart auditioned for SNL in 2001 but faced an uphill battle when asked to perform impressions. His attempt to channel former NBA player Avery Johnson and actors Robert De Niro and Denzel Washington fell flat, resulting in an awkward silence from the producers. Hart later recalled that his inability to recall De Niro’s lines and a misguided shouting impression of Washington led to a swift rejection.

In a twist of fate, Bill Maher was in contention for the coveted “Weekend Update” spot in the late 1990s. He was pitted against Al Franken before Norm Macdonald swooped in at the last moment. Despite having the same agent as SNL creator Lorne Michaels, Maher lost out when Michaels, acting on a writer’s suggestion, chose Macdonald instead.

Another surprise came from Kevin James, who described his mid-1990s audition as the “worst” experience of his career. Despite not eliciting a single laugh during his stand-up routine, James persevered and later credited the rejection with redirecting his path toward landing the lead role in The King of Queens.

Most shockingly, Jim Carrey auditioned for SNL multiple times, yet was turned away each time. The exact reasons for his repeated rejections remain unclear, but Michaels has denied responsibility, claiming Carrey never auditioned directly for him. Nonetheless, Carrey’s audition left a lasting impression on future SNL stars Dana Carvey and Phil Hartman, who were present during one audition where Carrey performed a handstand using only his pinky, believing it would secure him a spot on the show.

These stories serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry, where even the most talented individuals can face setbacks. The impact of these rejections shaped the careers of these comedians, leading them to pursue other successful avenues.

As fans continue to discuss these shocking audition stories, the question remains: what if these stars had made it onto SNL? Their journeys remind us that sometimes, setbacks lead to even greater opportunities. Stay tuned for more updates as reactions flood social media, sparking conversations about the unpredictable world of comedy and the iconic status of SNL.