How Chevy Chase made ‘Weekend Update’ work - CNN

The Origins of Saturday Night Live: A Look Back at the Early Days

It's hard to imagine a time when Saturday Night Live (SNL) didn't exist, but 50 years ago, NBC executives were still in the process of developing the show. In fact, weeks before the premiere of SNL, Chevy Chase had a camera test that would ultimately play a significant role in shaping the future of late-night television.

The Early Days of Saturday Night Live

In 1974, NBC was looking to create a new type of late-night program that would appeal to a younger audience. The network wanted to combine elements of variety shows, comedy sketches, and news programs to create something entirely new and original. This concept would eventually become Saturday Night Live.

The first cast of SNL was assembled in 1975, with Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Gilda Radner, Bill Murray, Laraine Newman, and Garrett Morris as the core members. The show's format was still being developed at this point, but one thing was certain – it would be a wild ride.

The Camera Test

In 1975, just weeks before the premiere of SNL, Chevy Chase participated in a camera test that would give NBC executives an idea of how the untested cast would perform on live television. This test was an opportunity for the network to see how the actors would interact with each other, their material, and the audience.

According to various accounts, including those from John Belushi's biographer, Joe Menichini, the camera test was a chaotic and hilarious experience. The cast members were given a series of sketches and musical numbers to perform, and they were encouraged to improvise and push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on television at the time.

The results of the camera test were reportedly mixed, with some segments working better than others. However, this footage would eventually be used as a starting point for the actual debut episode of SNL, which premiered on October 11, 1975.

Impact of the Camera Test

While the camera test was never officially released, it's believed to have played a significant role in shaping the early years of SNL. The experience helped the cast members develop their skills and find their footing on live television, and it laid the groundwork for some of the show's most iconic sketches and characters.

The success of the camera test also influenced the direction of the show's future. According to Gilda Radner, who was part of the original cast, the footage from the test was used to fine-tune the show's format and tone. This included making adjustments to the writing, adding more musical elements, and incorporating more physical comedy.

Legacy of Saturday Night Live

Fast-forward to today, and it's clear that Saturday Night Live has left an indelible mark on American television. With over 45 seasons under its belt, SNL has become a cultural institution, known for its biting satire, memorable characters, and hilarious cast members.

Chevy Chase's camera test was just one of many events that helped shape the early years of SNL. The show's success can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of its original cast members, who paved the way for future generations of comedians and writers.

As we look back on the origins of Saturday Night Live, it's clear that the camera test was just one small part of a larger story. From its humble beginnings as a camera test to its current status as a cultural phenomenon, SNL continues to entertain and inspire audiences around the world.

The Cast's Early Years

Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Gilda Radner, Bill Murray, Laraine Newman, and Garrett Morris were just a few of the talented individuals who made up the original cast of Saturday Night Live. Here's a brief overview of each of their early years:

• Chevy Chase: Born on October 8, 1943, in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, Chevy Chase began his career in comedy as a stand-up performer in the 1960s. He eventually landed a spot on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and later joined the cast of SNL.
• John Belushi: Born on January 24, 1949, in Wheaton, Illinois, John Belushi began his career in comedy as a member of The Second City comedy troupe. He eventually joined the cast of SNL and became known for his iconic characters like Samurai Delicatessen and Henry Kissinger.
• Dan Aykroyd: Born on July 1, 1952, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, Dan Aykroyd began his career in comedy as a member of The Second City. He eventually joined the cast of SNL and became known for his iconic characters like Elwood Blues and Coneheads.
• Gilda Radner: Born on June 28, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, Gilda Radner began her career in comedy as a stand-up performer in the 1970s. She eventually joined the cast of SNL and became known for her iconic characters like Roseanne Roseannadana.
• Bill Murray: Born on September 21, 1950, in Wilmette, Illinois, Bill Murray began his career in comedy as a member of The Second City. He eventually landed roles in films like Caddyshack and joined the cast of SNL.
• Laraine Newman: Born on August 6, 1947, in Los Angeles, California, Laraine Newman began her career in comedy as a stand-up performer in the 1970s. She eventually joined the cast of SNL and became known for her iconic characters like Mary Ann Carter.
• Garrett Morris: Born on January 19, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Garrett Morris began his career in comedy as a member of The National Players. He eventually joined the cast of SNL and became known for his iconic character Like Father, Like Son.

Impact on American Comedy

Saturday Night Live has had a significant impact on American comedy, paving the way for future generations of comedians and writers. The show's influence can be seen in many areas of comedy, from sketch shows like In Living Color to films like The Hangover.

SNL's success also helped establish late-night television as a major force in American entertainment. Shows like Conan, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and The Daily Show with Trevor Noah have all credited SNL as an influence.

Conclusion

Chevy Chase's camera test was just one small part of the story behind Saturday Night Live. The footage from that test would go on to play a significant role in shaping the show's format and tone, influencing future generations of comedians and writers.

As we look back on the origins of SNL, it's clear that the cast's early years were marked by chaos, creativity, and a willingness to take risks. From the camera test to its current status as a cultural phenomenon, Saturday Night Live continues to entertain and inspire audiences around the world.

Timeline

• 1974: NBC begins developing Saturday Night Live.
• 1975: The first cast of SNL is assembled, with Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Gilda Radner, Bill Murray, Laraine Newman, and Garrett Morris as core members.
• January 1975: A camera test is conducted to gauge the performance of the untested cast.
• October 11, 1975: The premiere episode of SNL airs on NBC.

Cast Members' Early Careers

• Chevy Chase:
  • Stand-up performer in the 1960s
  • Landed a spot on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in the 1970s
  • Joined the cast of SNL in 1975
• John Belushi:
  • Member of The Second City comedy troupe in the 1970s
  • Joined the cast of SNL in 1975
• Dan Aykroyd:
  • Member of The Second City in the 1970s
  • Landed roles in films like Caddyshack and joined the cast of SNL in 1975
• Gilda Radner:
  • Stand-up performer in the 1970s
  • Joined the cast of SNL in 1975
• Bill Murray:
  • Member of The Second City in the 1970s
  • Landed roles in films like Caddyshack and joined the cast of SNL in 1975
• Laraine Newman:
  • Stand-up performer in the 1970s
  • Joined the cast of SNL in 1975
• Garrett Morris:
  • Member of The National Players in the 1960s
  • Joined the cast of SNL in 1975