Norman Gene Macdonald, a renowned Canadian comedian, began his illustrious career in the realm of stand-up comedy, paving the way for a long and storied trajectory in the entertainment industry.
Born in the vibrant city of Quebec, Quebec, Macdonald's initial foray into the world of comedy was marked by his writing stint for The Dennis Miller Show in 1992. This early success was soon followed by his work on the popular sitcom Roseanne in 1988, where he caught the attention of the esteemed Lorne Michaels.
Michaels, impressed by Macdonald's stand-up talents, offered him a position on the iconic sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live, a program that has been delighting audiences for over four decades. Macdonald's tenure on SNL began in the mid-1990s and was marked by his memorable stint as the anchor of the show's Weekend Update segment, during which he would often conclude with his signature catchphrase, "And now the fake news."
Macdonald's popularity soared during his time on SNL, and he remained a beloved fixture on the show until his departure in March 1998. Following his departure from SNL, Macdonald transitioned to the big screen, starring in the comedy film Dirty Work, which was released just two months after his final Weekend Update broadcast.
In the years that followed, Macdonald continued to hone his craft, both on screen and behind the camera. In 1999, he created and starred in the ABC sitcom Norm, which enjoyed a successful three-season run. During this time, he also appeared in the film Screwed, alongside the talented Dave Chappelle.
Throughout his career, Norman Gene Macdonald has established himself as a talented comedian, writer, and actor, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.