Saturday Night Live‘s fourth season featured a veteran cast, all of whom had been with the series since it began in 1975 (save for Chevy Chase who left after the first year for leading man roles in Hollywood, and was replaced in the cast by Bill Murray).
Unlike years later when the show has included more than a dozen regulars and still more featured players, the small, seven-member cast in those early years were each familiar to audiences who embraced the series.
One unusual aspect of those early SNL seasons was the use of its entire cast within the same sketch. Such was the case on March 17, 1979, when Margot Kidder served as guest host. [Kidder died May 13, 2018, at just 68.] The actress was fresh off her role as the spunky reporter, Lois Lane, in the feature film, Superman, which had been released in December 1978, and was still playing in theaters.
Kidder reprised her role as Lane in the “Superhero Party” sketch that evening. Playing Superman was none other than Bill Murray. The skit opens in their living room; they’re now a married couple and are about to host a party. The doorbell rings…
It’s the Flash, played by Dan Aykroyd, and his friend Beverly (Gilda Radner). “Hey, if it isn’t the fastest man alive,” exclaims Murray. There are a couple of great superpowers jokes right away. “Flash, Beverly… wants some punch,” the hosts ask.
“Thanks, I just had some while you asked me,” is the quick reply.
The scene is stolen by John Belushi, in remarkable makeup as the Hulk. (The writers seamlessly blended characters from the DC Comics and Marvel Comics universes.) He’s followed in moments later by Laraine Newman, with a cast on her arm, and walking with the assistance of a crutch. (You’ll see why…)
When Hulk offers Kidder his housewarming gift, the audience roars. (As will you.)
They’re ultimately joined by several other superheroes. And when Superman flies off to get more ice, Clark Kent conveniently shows up.
There’s a line for the apartment’s one bathroom, currently occupied by the Hulk. The reaction to when the door eventually opens is priceless.
Watch “Superhero Party”
Related: Another Season 4 favorite with Lisa Loopner, Todd and the repairman
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2 Comments
Classic SNL sketch = it was Super, man!
There will never be another one like the late, great John Belushi who made SNL what it is.