Your Perfect 'Saturday Night Live' Episode, According to a Former Cast Member

For fans of "Saturday Night Live," the question of what constitutes a "perfect" episode is a deeply personal one. For Bobby Moynihan, a former cast member, it's a collection of cherished sketches and performances that shaped his experience with the iconic sketch comedy show.

Moynihan's ideal "SNL" episode draws from the late '80s to around 2020, focusing on sketches and cast members that resonated most with him during his years of fandom and his own time at 30 Rock. The selection process involved choosing 10 repertory players, 5 featured players, 8 sketches, 3 commercials/pretapes, and the standard elements of a typical episode: a cold open, monologue, host, musical guest, and Weekend Update.

The Cast and Cold Open

Moynihan's chosen cast includes repertory players Chris Farley, Will Ferrell, Bill Hader, Phil Hartman, Tim Meadows, Amy Poehler, Cecily Strong, Maya Rudolph, Kenan Thompson, and Kristen Wiig, with featured players Rachel Dratch, Vanessa Bayer, Chris Parnell, Tracy Morgan, and Will Forte.

The episode kicks off with Steve Martin's "Not Gonna Phone It In Tonight" musical number from December 14, 1991. This seven-minute sketch is lauded as the platonic ideal of a cold open, brilliantly addressing the burnout of weekly live comedy production with self-referential humor. Standout moments include Tim Meadows' deadpan delivery, Chris Farley's commitment to the bit, and Phil Hartman's interaction with Martin.

Monologue and Early Sketches

Joseph Gordon-Levitt's November 21, 2009, monologue, a performance of Donald O'Connor's "Make 'Em Laugh," is highlighted for its charisma and impressive physicality, including wall-assisted backflips. While not available online, its impact on the host's genuine elation is remembered.

Sketch Highlights

"Matt Foley: Van Down By The River"

This classic sketch from May 8, 1993, featuring Chris Farley as the motivational speaker living in a van, is a must-include. Moynihan notes Christina Applegate's perfect hosting, Phil Hartman's supporting role, and Farley's relentless energy, which often aimed to make his castmates break character.

"Happy Fun Ball"

A short and absurd commercial parody from February 16, 1991, "Happy Fun Ball" exemplifies Jack Handey's writing style. The sketch escalates a seemingly innocent toy into a weapon of alien descent, with the memorable line: "Do not taunt Happy Fun Ball."

"Meet Your Second Wife"

From December 19, 2015, this game show sketch is praised for its fresh concept and laugh-out-loud moments. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler co-star in a premise that plays on taboo subjects with surprise twists, elevated by strong performances and reaction shots, particularly from Leslie Jones.

"Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer"

This sketch, featuring Phil Hartman as a caveman thawed out in 1988 who becomes a lawyer, showcases Hartman's ability to ground an absurd premise. Written by Jack Handey, it's a masterclass in subverting expectations, with Hartman's charisma making the character a beguiling huckster.

"First CityWide Change Bank"

Another example of Jim Downey's comedic style, this commercial parody from October 8, 1988, deliberately over-explains a simple concept, highlighting the humor in wasting time with unnecessary detail.

"What Up With That?"

This sketch, starring Kenan Thompson as Diondre Cole, is described as a "joyful jolt of adrenaline." The premise involves a host who consistently derails interviews with musical breaks and random characters, with a consistent gag being the bumped guest, often Lindsey Buckingham.

"Laser Cats"

From January 31, 2009, this "SNL" Digital Short encapsulates The Lonely Island's absurdist humor. The "Laser Cats" series, particularly "Laser Cats 4 Ever," is celebrated for its nonsensical premise and a memorable interaction between Steve Martin and Lorne Michaels.

Musical Guest and Weekend Update

Adam Sandler's "The Chanukah Song"

While not a traditional musical guest, Sandler's iconic song from December 3, 1994, is included, allowing for an additional cast member spot and a Weekend Update desk piece. This choice also allows for the inclusion of Sandler's Chris Farley tribute song later in the episode.

Weekend Update with Norm Macdonald

Norm Macdonald's tenure as the host of Weekend Update is considered legendary. His dry, acerbic wit and willingness to trust his comedic instincts over audience approval made his segment unpredictable and original. Notable bits included his takes on O.J. Simpson and recurring jokes about Frank Stallone and David Hasselhoff. Fey once called him the "last dangerous SNL cast member."

Weekend Update Desk Pieces

Complementing Macdonald's hosting are desk pieces featuring beloved characters like Stefon (Bill Hader), Jacob the Bar Mitzvah Boy (Vanessa Bayer), and The Girl You Wish You Hadn't Started a Conversation With At a Party (Cecily Strong). Seth Meyers' role as the straight man and perfect foil to these characters is highlighted.

More Sketches and Final Selections

"What’s That Name?"

This game show sketch from March 2, 2019, is praised for its perfect comedic heightening and its blend of absurdity and relatable humor. The premise, where a host tortures contestants by asking for the names of casual acquaintances, taps into the universal truth that "we're all terrible with names."

"Spelling Bee"

From December 17, 2005, this Will Forte sketch is a "ridiculous joyride of insanity." Forte's monotonous recitation of letters, punctuated by Chris Parnell's single-word responses, exemplifies comedic repetition.

"Brian Fellow’s Safari Planet"

Tracy Morgan shines in this sketch from April 13, 2002. The nonsensical premise, coupled with a catchy theme song, features Morgan at his best, particularly in his interactions with guest star The Rock and a feuding parrot.

Adam Sandler Performs His Chris Farley Tribute Song

A poignant musical moment from May 5, 2019, serves as a heartfelt tribute to the late Chris Farley.

"Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey: Disneyland"

This brief, darkly humorous piece from December 7, 1991, showcases Jack Handey's unique brand of observational comedy.

"Dr. Beaman’s Office: Test Results"

Originally airing January 15, 2000, this sketch is presented as a quintessential 10-to-1 sketch. It features an array of bizarre one-liners and memorable characters, including Will Ferrell as the incompetent doctor and Tim Meadows as Dr. Poop.

Additional Mentions

Moynihan also compiles a "Cut For Time/Dress Rehearsal" list, including sketches like "Dysfunctional Family Dinner," "The Chris Farley Show," "Debbie Downer," "Hamm & Bublé," "Former Porn Stars," "Cobras and Panthers," "You Think I’m the Beast?," Weekend Update segments featuring "Get in the Cage with Nicolas Cage," "Angel, Every Boxer’s Girlfriend from Every Movie About Boxing Ever," "Jebidiah Atkinson," and David Spade’s "Hollywood Minute." Commercial/pre-tape selections include "United Way with Peyton Manning," "Dissing Your Dog," "Old Glory Insurance," "Technology Hump," and "Back Home Ballers." "Jack Sparrow" is noted as an SNL Digital Short, with "Happy Birthday Grandma" and "Phillip the Hyper Hypo and Grace" as sentimental favorites.

The article concludes with recommendations for further "SNL" exploration, including the "Saturday Night Network" series and the "One SNL a Day Project" website.