Live from New York, it's SNL's 40th anniversary!
Yeah, we know Saturday Night Live officially celebrated its milestone back in February, but today, October 11, is SNL's actual 40th birthday. When the show debuted back in 1975, the world could not have possibly known that it would become one of the greatest comedy institutions of all time, churning out stars left and right and giving us some of our favorite quotes to repeat (and our friends' least favorite quotes to hear constantly recited).
While far from every sketch has turned into something legendary, the show has produced some seriously unforgettable moments, and we couldn't possibly count them down. We can, however, take a walk down memory lane to revisit a few of our favorite landmark sketches from throughout the show's run.
Seasons 1—5: Dancing in the Dark
When you think of the original Not Ready For Prime Time Players, you think of Gilda Radner. (And John Belushi and Jane Curtin and Chevy Chase…) But for me, those early years are all about Gilda. And nothing encompasses the sweet and tragic side of that magnificent comedienne than Dancing in the Dark with Steve Martin from season three. You can literally feel their joy. Do yourself a favor and watch it now. —Billy Nilles
