Nicholas Braun Takes on Dual Roles as Jim Henson and Andy Kaufman in ‘Saturday Night’

Braun talks about the challenges of embodying two contrasting comedic legends in this highly anticipated film.

Nicholas Braun, best known for his Emmy-nominated role as Cousin Greg in HBO’s Succession, is set to take on two iconic roles in Saturday Night, a film chronicling the frenetic final moments before the debut episode of Saturday Night Live on October 11, 1975. The actor plays both Jim Henson and Andy Kaufman, two of the most distinct and revered figures in comedy history.

Portraying dual characters wasn’t the initial plan for Braun. He was originally cast as Henson, the beloved creator of the Muppets. But when Benny Safdie, who was slated to play Kaufman, had to drop out to direct another project, Braun was asked to take on the additional role just weeks before filming began. “It was a total shock,” Braun recalls. “I had to switch gears quickly and dive into Andy’s world.”

For Braun, capturing the essence of two such unique personalities was a daunting task. Henson, known for his gentle demeanor and creative genius, presented a different set of challenges compared to Kaufman’s eccentric and often enigmatic persona. “I watched a lot of interviews,” Braun says, “Jim was 39 when he did that first SNL episode, already established and successful. It was about finding that calm, almost subdued energy amidst all the chaos.”

Kaufman, on the other hand, required a different approach. Known for his unpredictable, boundary-pushing comedy, Kaufman’s presence on SNL was marked by his famous Mighty Mouse routine, which Braun replicates in the film. “I wanted to get it down to a T—where his arm shoots out, how his body moves. It’s all very specific,” Braun explains. “Jason [Reitman] and I decided to keep Andy in character as Foreign Man for the whole movie, which added a unique layer to his portrayal.”

The film, directed by Gil Kenan and co-written by Kenan and Jason Reitman, aims to recreate the energy and chaos of that historic night. “It was a crazy time,” Braun says. “There’s a lot of chaos and comedy behind the scenes. It was amazing to step into that world and experience it firsthand.”

In addition to Henson and Kaufman, Saturday Night features a star-studded cast, including SNL alumni and other notable actors. The film debuted to positive reviews at the Toronto International Film Festival, where Braun’s performance was praised for its nuance and commitment.

Braun admits the experience was nerve-wracking but ultimately rewarding. “Playing two roles is like doing a dance with yourself,” he says with a laugh. “It’s been a wild ride, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring these incredible men to life.”

Saturday Night is set to be released in theaters october 11, 2024.

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