This Saturday, NBC brings back its acclaimed comedic institution Saturday Night Live (SNL) for its 40th season. This upcoming season promises some noticeable cast changes along with big-name hosts and musical guests.
After famous SNL announcer Don Pardo passed away in August this year, the show now welcomes Darrell Hammond, a master impressionist and 14-year SNL veteran, to go behind the microphone. There will also be a new Weekend Update anchor, Michael Che, and and a new featured player, Pete Davidson.
First aired on Oct. 11, 1975, SNL holds its solid place as the nation’s longest running sketch comedy show, as well as the longest-running variety show. SNL was created by comedic giant Lorne Michaels. Numerous notable comedians have launched their lengthy career on SNL, since the show continuously changes it cast members.
The show has served to dictate the comedy of each era: Chevy Chase, Dan Aykroyd, Gilda Radner and John Belushi dominated the late ‘70s; Eddie Murphy, Joe Piscopo, Jon Lovitz and Phil Hartman took over in the ‘80s; Mike Myers, Adam Sandler, Chris Farley, David Spade and Chris Rock had their run in the ‘90s; and some of comedies most recent break out talents like Jimmy Fallon, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, Andy Samberg and Seth Meyers all starred on the show in the new millennium.
The first host of the season will be Chris Pratt, the star of the film Guardians of the Galaxy, and the musical guest will be pop star Ariana Grande.
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