In an interview published in Marie Claire‘s August 2012 issue, Kristen Wiig finally revealed why she left “Saturday Night Live” after seven seasons. She debuted on SNL shortly into season 31, on November 12, 2005.
“I know a lot of people probably assume, ‘Oh, she’s leaving because she is going to be doing movies now and things like that,’ which I will be. But I just always knew it was going to be seven and that was it. I think maybe if I were 22, I could see myself staying a little bit, but it just felt like the right time.”
Emotional Farewell on SNL
It ended up being an emotional departure for her. “I just wanted to get through it without breaking down in every sketch,” she says of her final show. “Because nothing says comedy like breaking down.”
Kristen Wiig shows sideboob in a Tom Ford suit on the cover of Marie Claire‘s August 2012 issue (Credit: Marie Claire)
Iconic Characters and Unforgettable Laughs
Kristen Wiig established herself as one of “Saturday Night Live’s” most versatile talents through various memorable characters—her breakout role as the chatty Target Lady showcased her ability to steal scenes with endearing enthusiasm.
As one of the Two A-Holes, alongside Jason Sudeikis, Wiig delivered humor through irritating encounters marked by blank stares and noisy gum-snapping. Aunt Linda, America’s Midwestern aunt, brought laughs with her disdain for Hollywood and love for hairspray. Penelope, the quintessential one-upper, claimed outrageous personal connections, including being best friends with Liza Minnelli.
Kristen Wiig left “Saturday Night Live” after seven seasons to pursue a broader range of acting opportunities in movies and other projects, feeling it was the right time to move on given her age and career aspirations (Credit: NBC)
Judy Grimes, the fast-talking, nervous travel agent, became known for her rapid-fire speech filled with constant “just kidding” retractions. Dooneese, the peculiar black sheep of the singing Maharelle family, left an impression with her odd charm and unlikely love story. Shana, the supposed bombshell, turned gross-out humor on its head by subverting expectations of sexiness.
Gilly, the mischievous grade-schooler, became a divisive character for her repetitive antics. As part of Garth and Kat, Wiig improvised musical performances with Fred Armisen, highlighting her comedic flexibility. Anastasia Sticks of “Hollywood Dish” and Mindy Elise Grayson, the ’60s stage siren terrible at “Secret Word,” rounded out Wiig’s SNL character portfolio, each bringing their unique flavor to the show’s comedic landscape.
A Fashionable Appearance on Marie Claire
Someone must have switched Kate Mara and Kristen Wiig’s suitcases while preparing for the European premiere of “The Martian!”
Kate, who looked rather plain in her Christian Dior dress, would have probably looked much better in the latter’s Valentino mini dress. Both women graced the red carpet of the premiere at Odeon Leicester Square in London.
Kristen Wiig attends the European premiere of “The Martian” held at Odeon Leicester Square in London, England, on September 24, 2015 (Credit: Daniel Deme / WENN)
Radiant on the Red Carpet
While critics say Kristen appeared too twee in her whimsical mini dress, I think she looked amazing!
Kate Mara, Kristen Wiig, Matt Damon, and Jessica Chastain attend the European premiere of “The Martian” (Credit: Daniel Deme / WENN)
Details of Wiig’s Valentino Dress
Her Valentino Resort 2016 dress was fashioned from sheer mesh fabric. It featured intricate bird-and-floral beadings, embroidery, and a short hemline flaunting her legs.
Kristen Wiig wears her hair in an updo at the European premiere of “The Martian” (Credit: Daniel Deme / WENN)
Wiig’s Elegant Beauty Look
The then-42-year-old actress wore her hair in a chic braided updo. She sported smoky eyes and nude lips that added a sultry touch to her feminine and demure look.
Kristen Wiig flaunts her legs in an embroidered Valentino dress (Credit: Daniel Deme / WENN)
The Allure of Christian Louboutin’s Follies Strass Pumps
The “Bridesmaids” star further elongated her pins with sparkling nude Christian Louboutin pumps, which appeared too big on her feet.
Kristen Wiig smiles and poses on the red carpet in a Valentino and Christian Louboutin combination (Credit: Daniel Deme / WENN)
Her “Follies Strass” pumps are made of nude mesh with gunmetal patent leather heel counters and beige leather piping.
Kristen Wiig shows off her feet in a pair of “Follies Strass” pumps (Credit: Daniel Deme / WENN)
They feature glittering Strass crystals, pointed toes, and about 4-inch covered stiletto heels.
Kristen Wiig reveals toe cleavage in Christian Louboutin pumps (Credit: Daniel Deme / WENN)
Where to Find Wiig’s Crystal-Embellished Pumps
Christian Louboutin’s “Follies Strass” pumps are available in beige mesh/black patent version at Nordstrom.
Christian Louboutin Crystal-Embellished Follies Strass Pumps, $1,195