The Best Idea Yet đş SNL: The Snickers Bar of Saturday Night | 50
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Sep 23, 2025 Discover the chaotic origins of a groundbreaking live variety show that redefined comedy. Learn how Lorne Michaels convinced NBC to take a chance on a risky new format amidst cost overruns and clashing egos. Explore the show's evolution from its debut with George Carlin to its skyrocketing success thanks to stars like Eddie Murphy. Uncover the unique digital strategy that linked SNL to YouTube's rise and hear about Lorne's quirky analogy comparing success to a Snickers bar. Get ready for a hilarious dive into television history!
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The Risky Pitch That Launched SNL
- Lorne Michaels pitched a risky sketch-comedy show to NBC as a live variety alternative aimed at young viewers.
- He envisioned a dangerous, subversive format that reflected underground sketch troops like Second City and the Groundlings.
Rotating Hosts, Repertory Cast
- Lorne designed a rotating guest-host format so repertory players could be unknowns while hosts brought legitimacy.
- The no-name cast became his secret weapon to discover raw comedic talent.
Chaos Before The Premiere
- Studio 8H required a $300,000 renovation and the production went over budget before the first run-through.
- On the Friday rehearsal the stage was unfinished, egos clashed, and fears rose that the show might fail.
