Tina Fey’s ‘Trial by Fire’: Telling Sylvester Stallone to ‘Enunciate More’ During Her First Week on SNL

When Tina Fey joined Saturday Night Live in 1997 as a new writer, she quickly learned that the show’s fast-paced, high-pressure environment leaves little room for hesitation—even when it means delivering tough feedback to Hollywood legends. One memorable moment from her very first week involved telling Sylvester Stallone, the season’s guest host and famed Rocky star, to “enunciate more” during a critical dress rehearsal.

Context: A Nervy Debut on the Iconic Comedy Stage

Fey’s debut coincided with the lead-up to the SNL season premiere, hosted by Stallone, whose distinct speech patterns—partly due to facial paralysis he’s had since birth—posed challenges for clear delivery in sketches. Producer Lorne Michaels noticed Stallone’s muffled dialogue, particularly in the “Rita” sketch, and insisted on clearer enunciation for the live broadcast.

The Task Falls to a Newcomer

Though fellow writer Scott Wainio, a year into his tenure, was present, he encouraged the rookie Fey to deliver the message. In her 2011 memoir Bossypants, Fey recounts the nerve-wracking moment: standing outside Stallone’s dressing room, knocking, and politely telling him he needed to speak more clearly. It was, as Fey put it, a true “trial by fire” and a baptism into the tough world of SNL.

Stallone’s Gracious Response

Despite the potential awkwardness of correcting a superstar, Stallone took the note in stride. Interviews and the Peacock docuseries SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night confirm that Stallone was understanding, perhaps accustomed to feedback due to his unique vocal challenges. His professionalism helped ease what could have been an intimidating encounter for a newcomer.

Fey’s Reflection: Growth Through Pressure

Fey looks back on the moment as a defining early lesson in adaptability and confidence—qualities that fueled her later successes both on SNL and in projects like 30 Rock. The incident illustrates the demanding, no-nonsense atmosphere of SNL, where writers and performers must quickly learn to navigate high stakes, creative pressure, and interpersonal dynamics.

Well-Documented Anecdote with Broad Resonance

This story has been recounted across numerous platforms—from Fey’s memoir to People, HuffPost, and Cracked.com—each emphasizing the “trial by fire” culture at SNL and the high expectations placed on even the newest staff. Fans and commentators on Reddit and other forums have discussed Stallone’s speech impediment and the leadership style of Lorne Michaels, appreciating the insight the anecdote gives into the show’s intense but rewarding environment.

Conclusion

Tina Fey’s courageous moment confronting Sylvester Stallone early in her SNL career highlights both the humor and hardship of working at one of television’s most iconic institutions. It’s a story of growth, resilience, and the willingness to speak up—traits that would help shape one of comedy’s most beloved talents.