A Baker's Dozen Of My Favorite SNL Skits--by Bryan F.

I loved Saturday Night as it was known in the beginning. The late-night comedy sketch program when it started in the fall of 1975 would catapult the careers of most of the cast into movie careers after their tenures ended in 1980. I guess you can also call it a variety show since it included musical guests. I liked the musical segments less because it took away from my time with these new TV friends that brightened my Saturday nights. Well you know, except when Annie Lennix was on and others of her caliber and my favor.

I won't do a deep dive here as most everyone knows the history of the show. I do remember going into mourning when the original cast, as well as Lorne Michaels, left. I believed it was over after the horrible 1980 season and would fail to return the following season, but it did and got better with performers like Eddie Murphy. 

I enjoyed it for many years until I didn't. It left me behind as I got older and some seasons I found to be unwatchable. In the 2000's it has had some sketches that resonate with me like The Californians. Of course, the new cold opens with Alex Baldwin parodying the current illegitimate US president has brought me back, but I usually turn it off before it's over these days. Much of it seems ridiculous and maybe it's over my head as an old person. That original cast had me in their grips though and I was a full-blown cult member of the show in those days. 

The show also allowed me a reason to stay home on Saturday nights when other young gay men of my age were going out to the bars. Going to the bars was always very difficult for me. I felt out of place and didn't usually fit in. This show gave me an excuse to skip the scene, at least on Saturday night that is. 

Don't tell the other original cast members, but Gilda was my favorite. Chevy Chase my least favorite and Bill Murray who replaced him, my second favorite. Gilda had a vulnerability that endeared me to her. When she passed it really was like losing a friend. 

I hope you'll take a moment to look at the YouTube comedy sketches that I posted below. They are a few of my favorites in no particular order. 

Go to next C7 post