The inaugural episode of "SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night" on Peacock offers a unique glimpse into the early careers of some of the most celebrated comedians. The episode, aptly titled "Five Minutes," delves into the initial auditions that shaped the future of these now-iconic performers. Many cast members were taken aback by their own performances from years ago, reflecting on how far they've come since those nerve-wracking moments.

A number of former cast members shared candid reflections about their first encounters with the legendary stage. Pete Davidson, who joined the show in 2014, described the eerie silence during his audition. He mentioned performing to an almost empty room, with only a few shadowy figures barely visible in the dark. Molly Shannon echoed similar sentiments, recalling an unsettling lack of audience response, which made the experience even more challenging. Tracy Morgan, watching his own 1996 audition tape, expressed disbelief at what he saw, yet acknowledged that Lorne Michaels must have seen potential beyond the performance itself. Bobby Moynihan and David Spade also reflected on their auditions, each marveling at how they managed to secure spots on the show despite their self-doubts.

The journey from uncertain beginnings to becoming household names is a testament to the resilience and talent of these comedians. It serves as a reminder that success often comes from unexpected places and that belief in one's abilities can lead to remarkable achievements. The humility and vulnerability shown by these stars highlight the importance of perseverance and embracing every opportunity, no matter how daunting it may seem at first.