Noah Wyle has fond memories of watching “Saturday Night Live” growing up, but one childhood encounter with one of the show’s former cast members, Eddie Murphy, stands out for a reason. “The Pitt” star recently looked back on the experience, sharing the story with a laugh rather than any apparent bitterness. While the moment may have been awkward, it clearly left a lasting impression that inspired one of his rules when it comes to dealing with fans.
Eddie Murphy Brushed Off A Young Noah Wyle With A Curse
During a conversation with Amy Poehler on the “Good Hang” podcast, Noah Wyle opened up about his love for “Saturday Night Live.” He recalled watching the show as a child and being such a devoted fan that he could imitate sketches and bits performed by the cast members.
At one point, he shared a bad encounter with Eddie Murphy, who was an “SNL” cast member from 1980 to 1984.
Wyle recalled asking the comedian for an autograph, telling him how much he enjoyed watching him on the show. Rather than giving in to the request, Murphy asked a young Wyle, “What are you doing up so late?” He responded with a nervous laugh and tried once more to get a signature, to which Murphy reportedly replied, “F-ck off, man.”
The Actor Always Accommodates Kids Asking For Autographs
Wyle’s story had Poehler dissolving into a fit of laughter before asking the actor how old he was when the encounter happened. “Nine,” Wyle responded with a smile, sending the host into another round of laughter.
Despite what could be perceived as a rude interaction, particularly given that Wyle was just a child, the actor said the experience inspired a personal rule for how he treats his own fans.
He said, “I always sign autographs. Whenever a 9-year-old needs an autograph from me, I sign that so fast.”
Noah Wyle’s Eddie Murphy Story Has Become An Inside Joke In His Family
Wyle told Poehler that for his birthday in 2025, he received the best birthday gift from his then 10-year-old daughter, Frances.
Frances got creative and printed out a photo of Murphy and wrote, “Dear Noah, you’re a great kid. Eddie Murphy.”
“She spelled Eddie E-D-D-Y, and I have it framed in my office. It’s the greatest gift,” Wyle gushed.
Frances even came up with a backstory, saying how she and her mother ran into Murphy. “We got what you always wanted. His autograph,” she told him before presenting the gift.
‘The Pitt’ Star Wants The Chance To Host ‘SNL’
Wyle’s enthusiasm for “SNL” has never faded. In fact, the actor told Poehler that, as a longtime fan of the sketch comedy show, he would love the opportunity to host it someday.
He has already brought up the idea to “SNL” creator Lorne Michaels, whom he met recently. “I kind of put the bee in his bonnet, as they say,” he said.
Although Wyle has yet to take on hosting duties, he has made an appearance on the show. In 2000, the actor joined his “ER” co-star Julianna Margulies in a parody skit of the hit medical drama. Margulies served as that episode’s host, giving the co-stars a chance to bring their on-screen world to the “SNL” stage.
Noah Wyle Is 2026’s Sexiest Man Alive
PEOPLE magazine recently named “The Pitt” star as this year’s Sexiest Man Alive. In an interview with the outlet, the 55-year-old actor said he never “in a million years” thought he would ever get the honor.
This wasn’t the first time the magazine recognized Wyle’s good looks, though, as he previously graced the cover of the magazine alongside his “ER” co-stars George Clooney, Eriq La Salle, and Anthony Edwards for a feature titled “Sexy Men of ER” in 1996. That same year, Wyle also earned a spot on the magazine’s list of 50 Most Beautiful People.
As for whether he thinks the new title will change anything for him, he said, “No, I don’t, but I am going to take a lot of ribbing from friends and family for sure.”
