St. Paul’s Tommy Brennan Shines in First Major ‘SNL’ Appearance

St. Paul native Tommy Brennan made a notable debut on Saturday Night Live this past weekend, marking a significant milestone in his comedy career. This appearance comes three episodes into the show’s 51st season, where he is one of five new featured players added to the cast.

During a segment on Weekend Update, co-host Colin Jost welcomed Brennan and inquired about his impressions of New York City since relocating there. Brennan humorously noted the differences between the bustling metropolis and his hometown. “Well, it’s a little different from home,” he quipped, referencing his Midwestern roots. “I’m from a big, Minnesotan family. I’m one of eight kids.”

Brennan’s background served as a rich source of humor. As he explained, his childhood home featured a cafeteria-style milk machine and a friendly milkman named Tim, who played an active role in his upbringing. “Tim the milkman was a big part of my life,” Brennan shared. “He’d show up, he’d replace the milk, we’d play catch, he’d call me ‘son.’ I’d be, like, ‘Why do I look so much like you?’”

Jost responded with a light-hearted jest, suggesting that Brennan’s upbringing sounded reminiscent of the 1930s. Brennan, quick to follow up, replied, “I didn’t, but I do look like I did. I look like a locket photo during World War I.”

As the segment continued, Brennan expressed his newfound love for the New York subway system. He proudly recounted his first experience jumping a turnstile, describing it as “exhilarating” and “thrilling.” He added, “It was, uh, it was on the way out. But, like, it felt good. It still counts, you know?”

Brennan also touched on his Catholic upbringing, humorously reflecting on the guilt instilled in him during his youth. He joked about not being able to confess to “the one sin that me and every other 12-year-old boy was committing constantly.”

With the cast of SNL boasting a total of 10 repertory players and seven featured players, Brennan will face considerable competition for future screen time. His performance, however, has already made an impression, showcasing his comedic timing and relatable storytelling.

As Brennan continues to navigate his career in comedy, his journey from St. Paul to the iconic stage of SNL is a testament to his talent and determination. With his engaging persona and ability to connect with audiences, he is poised to carve out a significant place for himself in the world of television comedy.