Tom Holland has tackled blockbuster movies, live theater and even a now-iconic performance of Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” but there’s one opportunity he still hasn’t been able to bring himself to accept.
The “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” star recently revealed that he’s been asked to host “Saturday Night Live” multiple times over the years. However, Holland admitted he has repeatedly turned down the offer because of his dyslexia and fear of reading the show’s famous cue cards live on air.
During an appearance on Amy Poehler’s “Good Hang” podcast, Holland explained that while he has no trouble reading in everyday life, reading out loud presents a different challenge.
“I’m heavily dyslexic,” Holland said, explaining that it’s one of the main reasons he has never hosted the long-running sketch comedy series.
Holland said the unpredictable nature of “SNL” is what makes the opportunity especially intimidating. Because scripts are often revised at the last minute, performers frequently rely on handwritten cue cards during the live broadcast.
“I’m just so petrified at the concept of trying to read something and they change it,” Holland said.
The actor explained that reading aloud can sometimes create what he described as a mental block.
“I can read fine. But when I have to read out loud, it just becomes… it’s like a mental block. And I can freeze,” he shared.
The Cue Cards Aren’t the Only Challenge
Holland said one of his least favorite parts of working on any project is the table read, when cast members gather to read the script aloud before filming begins.
To help manage those situations, he typically studies his material ahead of time and highlights important sections so he’s mostly skimming rather than actively reading.
According to Holland, that’s one of the reasons the idea of hosting “SNL” feels so daunting. With scripts changing throughout the week and even during rehearsals, Holland worries there would be little time to prepare for unexpected changes.
Despite those concerns, the actor made it clear that his hesitation has nothing to do with the show itself.
“I’ve been really lucky that they’ve asked me a few times to do it,” Holland said. “I love the show, and I love the idea of having fun and making a fool of yourself in such a fun, creative way. It’s just that thing of the cue cards.”
Poehler offered some reassurance during the conversation, joking, “You have to remember, there have been people that have hosted that have been fully on drugs. So I think you can do it.”
Holland Has Previously Opened Up About Dyslexia and ADHD
GettyThis isn’t the first time Holland has spoken candidly about living with dyslexia.
As previously reported, the actor has also discussed having ADHD and admitted that both conditions can sometimes make acting feel intimidating. He previously explained that starting a new role can feel overwhelming because he often has to build a character from a blank slate.
Holland has also been open about protecting his mental health. In past interviews, he revealed that he stepped away from social media because he found platforms like Instagram and Twitter overstimulating. He has also spoken publicly about his sobriety journey and his decision to stop drinking.
Of course, fans may be surprised to learn that someone nervous about live cue cards once delivered one of pop culture’s most memorable viral performances. During the podcast, Holland joked that his 2017 rendition of Rihanna’s “Umbrella” on “Lip Sync Battle” still gets more attention than any of his acting roles.
“I get more compliments for that dance than any piece of work I have ever done,” Holland said.
