Saturday Night Live

Definition

Saturday Night Live (SNL) is a live television variety show that has been airing since 1975, known for its unique blend of comedy sketches, musical performances, and celebrity guest appearances. The show has become a cultural icon, often satirizing current events and popular culture through its comedic lens, and has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of American television variety shows.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. SNL was created by Lorne Michaels and has launched the careers of many famous comedians and actors, including Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Bill Murray.
2. The format includes a host who is usually a celebrity, musical guests, and various segments that include parodies of commercials and news segments.
3. SNL has won numerous awards, including Emmy Awards, for its innovative approach to sketch comedy and its influence on American pop culture.
4. The show often features recurring characters and sketches that become fan favorites, creating a sense of continuity and anticipation among viewers.
5. SNL's ability to respond quickly to current events makes it relevant and engaging, with political satire being a significant aspect, especially during election years.

Review Questions

• How does Saturday Night Live incorporate elements of sketch comedy into its format, and why is this significant for its appeal?
  • Saturday Night Live incorporates sketch comedy by presenting short, humorous scenes that often parody real-life situations or cultural phenomena. This format is significant because it allows for rapid-fire jokes and varied content within a single episode, keeping the audience engaged. The blend of topical humor with character-driven sketches creates a unique viewing experience that resonates with viewers and highlights current events in an entertaining way.
• Analyze the role of the live audience in enhancing the performances on Saturday Night Live and how it impacts the show's overall atmosphere.
  • The live audience plays a crucial role in enhancing performances on Saturday Night Live by providing immediate feedback through laughter and reactions. This interaction adds energy to the show, making it feel spontaneous and dynamic. The presence of a live audience also influences how performers deliver their lines and interact with one another, creating an atmosphere that feels unique to each episode and contributing to SNL's reputation for unpredictability.
• Evaluate how Saturday Night Live's political satire has evolved over time and its impact on American political discourse.
  • Saturday Night Live's political satire has evolved significantly since its inception, adapting to changes in political leadership and societal issues. Initially focused on broad political commentary, SNL now uses sharp satire to critique specific policies and political figures in real-time. This evolution has made SNL not only a source of entertainment but also a platform for political discourse, influencing public perception and engagement during election cycles. By humorously dissecting current events, SNL encourages viewers to reflect on political issues while contributing to a larger conversation about governance in America.

Related terms

Sketch Comedy: A style of comedy that consists of short, humorous scenes or vignettes that often parody real-life situations or characters.

Cold Open: The opening segment of SNL that occurs before the opening credits, typically featuring a comedic sketch that sets the tone for the episode.

Live Audience: An audience present during the live broadcast of SNL, which contributes to the energy and spontaneity of the performances.