S.N.L.' Weekend Update: An Oral History of 50 Seasons
Briefly

Since its debut in 1975, Weekend Update has established itself as a pivotal part of Saturday Night Live, providing satirical commentary on current events. Originating with Chevy Chase’s opening joke, the segment quickly evolved into a platform for political satire and societal reflection. It has influenced comedy careers and sparked discussions, often leading to tensions with network executives. Created during a time of significant social change, Weekend Update catered to an audience hungry for humor in the wake of events like Watergate and the Vietnam War, making it a unique cultural touchstone over the decades.
Weekend Update is the most enduring franchise of its kind, giving S.N.L. its most direct platform to make fun of politics, presidents, global crises and daily oddities.
Like S.N.L. itself, Weekend Update has been a launchpad for comedy careers, as well as a crucible of controversy, especially when performers clashed with NBC executives.
Read at www.nytimes.com
[
|
]