Joan Cusack reveals the 1985 role she would like to erase from her memory: "I was miserable"

In 1985, while her brother John Cusack was shining in the cult comedy "Better Off Dead," Joan Cusack was facing a difficult time in her career. That year, newly graduated and full of expectations, Joan got her first role in Hollywood, but the experience ended up being very different from what she imagined. The actress joined the cast of the program "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), which today is a global reference in humor and political satire, including successful international versions. However, in 1985, the program was facing a severe crisis, with low ratings and a real risk of cancellation. Despite the talented cast, which included names like Nora Dunn, Jon Lovitz, Dennis Miller, Robert Downey Jr., Randy Quaid, Danitra Vance and Damon Wayans, that season was not considered one of the attraction's best moments. Joan recalls in a 2000 interview with the program "Fresh Air" that the environment was quite chaotic. The group of actors didn't have time to create a solid connection before starting work, something essential for success on an improv comedy show. Furthermore, internal disputes over which material would be chosen for the show made the environment even more competitive and tense. Joan's shyer and less aggressive personality did not help in the fight for prominence, as the environment required a more combative stance to stand out. "It was a really competitive place. I knew I was competitive and determined, but I didn't feel aggressive enough. I wasn't good at being aggressive like that," the actress revealed. After a year on the program, Joan was removed from the cast. When asked if the aggressive atmosphere was the main reason for her departure, she was candid: "Yes, I think so, and also they fired me... I like to think it was my choice, but no, it wasn't. It just wasn't working. And it wasn't working for me either." As the years passed, Joan gained a more mature perspective on that difficult time. She admitted that at the time she felt really bad about not being able to establish herself on SNL and recognized that the show wasn't the right place for her at that time. "I felt really bad that I didn't get into that program, and it wasn't right for me," he said. Reflecting on the episode, Joan believes that, if she could go back in time, she would see the situation as an opportunity to gain more confidence and prove her talent. "To have done that, you just need a little more confidence to move forward...", he commented. Despite the initial setback, Joan Cusack built a solid and respected career in film and television, leaving behind the feeling of impostor that accompanied her in those turbulent beginnings.