When Saturday Night Live first hit television screens on October 11, 1975, it was unlike anything audiences had seen before. Combining live sketch comedy, satirical brilliance, and musical performances, the show—created by Lorne Michaels—introduced the now-legendary “Not Ready for Prime Time Players”. These seven trailblazing performers not only launched the iconic series but also revolutionized television comedy.
With unforgettable sketches, groundbreaking humor, and characters that remain pop culture staples, this group laid the foundation for one of TV’s longest-running shows. But what are these comedic legends up to now? Let’s revisit their impact and explore their lives today.
Dan Aykroyd: From Blues Brothers to Business Ventures
Dan Aykroyd’s extraordinary comedic range made him a standout on SNL. He delivered iconic characters like Beldar Conehead and was half of the legendary Blues Brothers duo alongside John Belushi. His quick wit and spot-on impressions—especially of politicians—helped define the show’s early years.
Where is Dan Aykroyd now?
After leaving SNL, Aykroyd became a Hollywood star with hits like Ghostbusters and Trading Places. He remains active in the entertainment industry and co-owns the wildly successful Crystal Head Vodka brand. Aykroyd, now 71, still occasionally appears in movies and remains connected to his SNL roots, often reprising roles like Dr. Raymond Stantz from Ghostbusters.
John Belushi: The Beloved Comedic Wild Card
John Belushi brought unmatched energy and physical comedy to SNL. Whether it was his iconic “Samurai Futaba” or the unforgettable “Cheeseburger, Cheeseburger” sketch, Belushi’s performances were larger-than-life. His creation of the Blues Brothers alongside Aykroyd became a cultural phenomenon that extended beyond the show.
Belushi’s legacy today
Sadly, John Belushi passed away in 1982 at the age of 33 due to a drug overdose. However, his influence remains strong in the comedy world. His life and legacy were explored in the acclaimed documentary Belushi (2020), reminding fans of the sheer brilliance and raw talent he brought to SNL.
Chevy Chase: From SNL to a Turbulent Career
Chevy Chase became the first breakout star of SNL as the original anchor of “Weekend Update”. His sharp, deadpan humor and memorable line, “I’m Chevy Chase, and you’re not,” made him an immediate audience favorite.
What’s Chevy Chase up to now?
Chase, now 80, had a successful film career with hits like Caddyshack, National Lampoon’s Vacation, and Fletch. While his career faced challenges in recent years, he remains a recognizable face in comedy. He’s also embraced his legacy, often appearing at fan events and retrospectives honoring SNL.
Jane Curtin: The Straight-Faced Genius of Comedy
Jane Curtin provided balance and sharp wit on SNL, often playing the “straight character” amid the show’s chaos. Her work on Weekend Update with Chevy Chase and later Dan Aykroyd showcased her impeccable comedic timing and intelligence.
Jane Curtin today
Curtin, now 76, transitioned seamlessly into a successful post-SNL career, starring in sitcoms like Kate & Allie and 3rd Rock from the Sun. She remains active in television and film, often taking on roles that showcase her versatility and elegance. Curtin continues to be a beloved figure, praised for her contributions to comedy and her ability to evolve with the industry.
Garrett Morris: Breaking Barriers with Comedy
As the first Black cast member on SNL, Garrett Morris broke barriers while delivering unforgettable performances. His role in the News for the Hard of Hearing and his musical talents made him a key figure in the show’s success.
What’s Garrett Morris doing now?
Morris, now 87, has had a long and steady career, with roles in shows like 2 Broke Girls and The Jamie Foxx Show. He’s celebrated as a pioneer who paved the way for future Black comedians on SNL. Morris remains active in Hollywood and continues to inspire young performers with his groundbreaking legacy.
Laraine Newman: Quirky, Bold, and Ahead of Her Time
Laraine Newman’s offbeat humor and quirky characters, like Sheri the Valley Girl, brought a fresh and unconventional dynamic to SNL. Her improvisational background added depth to the show’s sketches.
Laraine Newman today
Newman, now 72, transitioned into a successful career as a voice actress, lending her talents to animated shows like The Incredibles and Despicable Me. She’s also an active member of the comedy community, often reflecting on her time on SNL with humor and grace. Newman remains a trailblazer who left a lasting impact on comedy.
Gilda Radner: The Heart of Saturday Night Live
Gilda Radner was arguably the soul of the original SNL cast. Her beloved characters—like Roseanne Roseannadanna and Emily Litella—made her a fan favorite. Radner’s humor was infectious, relatable, and deeply human, earning her a place among the greatest comedians of all time.
Remembering Gilda Radner
Tragically, Radner passed away in 1989 at the age of 42 due to ovarian cancer. Her legacy lives on through the Gilda’s Club organization, which supports cancer patients and their families. Her work continues to inspire generations of performers, and her sketches are still cherished by fans worldwide.
How the Original Cast Changed Comedy Forever
The “Not Ready for Prime Time Players” were more than a group of comedians—they were cultural trailblazers who redefined television. By blending satire, improvisation, and live performance, they created a show that not only entertained but also reflected the rapidly changing world of the 1970s. Their legacy set the standard for modern sketch comedy and provided a launching pad for generations of comedians.
The influence of the original cast is still felt today. From Dan Aykroyd’s entrepreneurial success to Jane Curtin’s elegant career longevity and Garrett Morris’ barrier-breaking achievements, their contributions to comedy endure. Even the memories of John Belushi and Gilda Radner remain alive, reminding us of their unparalleled talent.
Conclusion: The Magic Lives On
The original cast of Saturday Night Live created a comedic revolution that shaped television history. Their daring humor, iconic sketches, and fearless creativity set a standard that comedians continue to chase. While time has passed, their contributions remain timeless, their influence forever etched into the fabric of comedy.
Whether you’re rewatching classic sketches or celebrating the show’s modern incarnations, the magic of the “Not Ready for Prime Time Players” lives on. They weren’t just performers—they were legends who made the words “Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!” a cultural anthem for generations to come.
