What 'Please Don't Destroy' Refers To
On Saturday Night Live, 'Please Don't Destroy' is the nickname for a recurring trio of cast members: Martin Herlihy, John Higgins, and Ben Marshall. The name comes from the troupe's earlier work on the digital series 'Please Don't Destroy' before they joined SNL in 2021. As of this writing, all three remain listed as cast members on the show, though their frequency and prominence can vary by season. This overview explains their backgrounds, signature sketches, and current standing on SNL.
Backgrounds and Paths to SNL
Martin Herlihy is the son of comedian and actor Chris Farley. He grew up in the public eye and joined SNL as a featured player in 2019 before being promoted to repertory status. John Higgins built his career through digital shorts and stage work, while Ben Marshall was known for off-Broadway performances and online content. None of them were hired in the same large batch; each entered the show on separate timelines, with Herlihy arriving first and Higgins and Marshall following. Their pre-SNL work helped shape the goofy, character-driven style they are known for on the show.
Key Early Digital Work
Before appearing on SNL, the trio collaborated on the web series 'Please Don't Destroy,' which highlighted their tight chemistry and absurdist humor. These shorts went viral and created an audience expectation for their specific brand of comedy when they debuted on television. That prior digital footprint gave them built-in recognition, which is uncommon for new SNL hires. The series also showcased their strengths in awkward dialogue, improvised-sounding bits, and relatable teen-adjacent scenarios.
Signature Sketches and Notable Appearances
On SNL, the trio is best known for playing exaggerated teenagers and young adults in awkward, hyper-specific situations. Their sketches often feature loose dialogue, meandering stories, and a sense of improvisation that feels genuine. Some of their most frequently referenced bits include high school-themed vignettes, tech support parodies, and cringe-heavy conversations between friends. While they are not always at the center of the biggest political parodies, they have carved out a reliable niche in the show's younger-set humor.
- High school life sketches that lean into awkward teen interaction
- Overly earnest advice scenarios, especially about jobs and technology
- Supportive friend group dynamics that feel drawn from real adolescence
- Quick-cut digital-style pacing adapted for live television
Current Status on SNL (Evergreen Position as of 2024)
As of the most recent publicly available information, Martin Herlihy, John Higgins, and Ben Marshall are all listed as cast members for SNL. Their exact roster status can shift from season to season based on staffing changes. Historically, SNL has rotated its cast in and out of repertory and featured tiers, so their appearances per season vary. There have been no official announcements indicating that any member of the trio has departed the show. In short, they are still part of the SNL cast, though their screen time may fluctuate.
Quick Reference: Core Facts
| Cast Member | Role in the Trio | Joined SNL | Typical SNL Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Martin Herlihy | Member of Please Don't Destroy trio; son of Chris Farley | 2019 (as featured player); became repertory around 2021 | Repertory player; frequent in Please Don't Destroy sketches |
| John Higgins | Writer and performer in the trio | 2021 | Featured then repertory; core sketch performer |
| Ben Marshall | Writer and performer in the trio | 2021 | Featured then repertory; character-driven bits |
Public Perception and Fan Reception
Fans often appreciate the trio for their chemistry and for filling a specific gap on SNL: relatable, non-political, youth-oriented humor. Their sketches stand out for feeling less like traditional monologue bits and more like improvised scenes stretched for television. Some viewers find their style occasionally uneven, but their base audience enjoys the consistency of their friend-group vibe. On social media, clips of their sketches circulate regularly, usually highlighting one awkward line or physical bit that resonated. Overall, they occupy a loyal, if not massive, audience within the broader SNL viewership.
Collaborations and Writing Contributions
Beyond performing, all three have writing credits on SNL, which helps explain the continuity of their voice on the show. They frequently work together in the writers' room, shaping material for themselves and other cast members. This dual role as writers and performers is increasingly common on SNL and allows their sketches to stay on brand from week to week. Their digital background also shows in how they approach social media promos, often riffing on the same jokes in clips that extend beyond the aired episode.
Future Trajectory and Longevity
Because SNL frequently refreshes its cast, the trio's long-term trajectory depends on both ratings flexibility and personal career goals. So far, they have maintained a presence through multiple seasons, which suggests they are meeting the show's needs. If SNL continues to value character-driven, youth-focused humor, there is room for them to remain central. However, like many cast members, they may see their role evolve from broad repertory to more selective appearances. Their evergreen value lies in their identifiable brand of awkward, warm comedy, which can stay relevant even as cast lines shift.