White’s comments to USA Today shed some light on why she was initially reluctant to agree:
“Years ago, I turned it down three times,” White says. “It’s so New York, and I’m not New York at all. “But my agent said he’d divorce me if I didn’t do it, and I love my agent.” (That agent, Jeff Witjas, says he was only joking, but “it’s perfect timing for her career right now. I said, ‘Do it now, or when you’re 95.’ “)
And it’s not because she was worried about the long hours and late nights involved with putting together such a show, though that’s why Michaels says he called in reinforcements. She says,
“I’ve got so much energy, it’s ridiculous. I love working. My schedule is a feverish one, and I’m used to that.”
Both Michaels and White give credit to the Facebook campaign for clinching the deal. Next cause: Gabby Sidibe as host?
Live, From New York, It’s … Betty White Hosting ‘SNL’ [USAT]
Earlier: SNL Honcho Confirms Women Of Comedy Special But No Betty White Yet
The Campaign To Get Betty White To Host SNL.
