In order to escape from troubles in life, many seek a comedic outlet. One popular comedy show that has only continued to grow is NBC’s Saturday Night Live. SNL combines the two things people love, pop culture and comedy. Since SNL first aired in 1975, its popularity and influence on the comedy world only continues to grow.
Specifically, Saturday Night Live is an American sketch comedy television series that highlights edgy comedy that mainly appeals to younger audiences. The program was first created by Dick Emerson and Lorne Micheals. Each episode features the show’s regular ensemble of actors with a guest host and musical guest. The show has always been filmed in front of a studio audience. It has become one of longest-running programs in television history.
Recently, a new movie came out featuring the show. Saturday Night showcases the very first opening night of the new show. It goes through the many ups and downs that the cast, crew, and producers went through in order to premiere the show, all the way back in 1975. This movie was made to celebrate the upcoming 50 year anniversary of the show. Senior Kaitlyn Saba, watched the movie in theaters. “I found the movie so interesting because it proves how SNL has not really changed even 50 years later.”
Saturday Night Live has fostered some of the most successful comedians. Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Billy Crystal, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Farley, Chris Rock, Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Will Ferrell, Jimmy Fallon, Tina Fey, and Maya Rudolph are household names that all got their starts on Saturday Night Live. Some either had multiple cameos in the show or were a part of the company for some years. All these actors and comedians got their head start through SNL. After, they all went to star in many hit movies.
Today, SNL’s popularity has a lot to do with social media. Clips from skits are posted very frequently on TikTok. Aubrey Crisostomo, a CCHS senior said, “I have heard about SNL in the past but never actually watched it until I started seeing clips on TikTok. Now, I watch the actual show.” SNL also bases many new skits on current trends, which allows them to gain viewership, especially with younger audiences.
Saturday Night Live is a huge part of pop culture, then and now. It will forever continue to grow because who doesn’t love to break out in laughs?
