I spend a hefty chunk of time arguing against the “Saturday Night Live just ain’t what it used to be” mentality. It’s been said since the show — which is now in its 39th season — went into its second season. It’s a dumb argument, but I’m working on cutting back on rants, so I’ll stop there.
But this year was to be a season without a huge chunk of a staff that had really found its groove: Bill Hader, Fred Armisen and Jason Sudeikis all left, and that was on the heels of Kristen Wiig and Andy Samberg departing the year prior.
So I was understandably anxious about the season premiere last weekend.
And, wonderfully, I was surprised.
Lorne Michaels proved a pro in bringing SNL veteran Tina Fey to host, and the entire episode poked fun at the idea that everyone is saying SNL is in a “rebuilding year.” It thrust the six new cast members into the spotlight multiple times instead of hiding them in the shadows, and Cecily Strong proved she is going to be an incredible co-anchor (and, most likely in the soon future, solo anchor) for "Weekend Update."
I, for one, am excited for this upcoming season and to see SNL prove it can still roll out hits.
Plus, how can you really argue that a show that has had 39 seasons sucks?
— Nicolien Buholzer, Managing Editor
