SNL An American Institution
SNL (Saturday Night Live), a live late-night television sketch comedy show, has entertained audiences. Saturday Night Live NBC, 1975 Based on a Broadway format, SNL has produced endless classic sketches, characters and comedians,
The Early Days
It was absolutely nuts for those first few years. Featuring a stellar cast including Chevy Chase, John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, SNL rewrote the rules of TV comedy, frequently taking aim at politics, pop culture and the news of the day. Fans quickly got on board for the irreverent humor of the show and it became a cultural touchstone for the young audience, unafraid to go there.
A New Era
Change hit Saturday Night Live in the 80s. There was better late-night competition, even though the show still had its moments. The addition of new talent like Eddie Murphy ensured, however, that the show remained fresh and popular.
In the 90s Saturday Night Live went even further with its satirical, ridiculous brand of sketch comedy. The writers and performers got mighty experimental with the characters: Wayne’s World, The Church Lady and Stefon.
The SNL 21st Century and Beyond
Saturday Night Live has continued to change in the 21st century. They have taken their show to the digital space and exposed it to a wider audience and to develop their brand through YouTube. It has also adapted to social media, frequently weaving current trends and internet memes in the sketches.
SNL still has a massive cultural footprint even though it has been spending a lot of time off the rails, leaning heavily on nostalgia, so some discontent is understandable. The topicality of the show, and its skill in skewering the current events and the times has allowed it remain topical for decades.
The Effect of SNL
As SNL exerts a pretty blatant influence over the pop culture landscape. It has also given many comedians, including Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler and Will Ferrell their break. It has spawned so many catchphrases and cultural references that are woven into the fabric of America.
And SNL has made a huge mark on the political conversation. The political satire of the show has a long history of swaying public perception and keeping politicians accountable.
SNL is still a huge part of American culture, as it moves on from here. And its legacy is evidence that comedy can do what comedy does best entertain, challenge, and ignite.
