One sentence summary:
This book provides an in-depth and uncensored history of the iconic sketch comedy show, Saturday Night Live.
Book genre:
Non-fiction, entertainment, history
Main topic of the book:
The history and behind-the-scenes stories of Saturday Night Live, one of the longest-running and most influential television shows in American history.
Key ideas:
- The creation and evolution of Saturday Night Live, including its early struggles, groundbreaking successes, and ongoing cultural impact.
- The show’s impact on American comedy, television, and pop culture, as well as its influence on the careers of its cast members and hosts.
- The challenges and controversies faced by the show, including controversial sketches, contract negotiations, and backstage drama.
- The process of creating and producing a live sketch comedy show, including the writing, casting, and performing aspects.
Main parts of the book and a short summary:
- Prologue and Introduction: Provides background information on the origins of Saturday Night Live and its creators, as well as an overview of the impact the show has had on television.
- Part One: The Early Years (1975-1980): Chronicles the struggles and triumphs of the show’s first five seasons, including the hiring and firing of cast members and the creation of memorable sketches and characters.
- Part Two: Growing Pains (1980-1985): Explores the challenges and controversies faced by the show in its second stage, such as cast departures and the pressure to maintain success.
- Part Three: The Lorne Michaels Era (1985-1995): Examines the return of original producer Lorne Michaels and the show’s resurgence in the 1980s and early 1990s, as well as the impact of cast members such as Eddie Murphy and Adam Sandler.
- Part Four: The Rise of the Superstars (1995-2001): Highlights the success of the show’s established and up-and-coming stars, particularly Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, and Jimmy Fallon, as well as the introduction of new formats and technologies.
- Part Five: A Decade of Change (2001-2011): Discusses the post-9/11 era of Saturday Night Live, including its parody of current events and its cultural relevance in a rapidly changing world.
- Part Six: The Modern Era (2011-present): Explores the continued success and growth of Saturday Night Live in the current age of streaming, social media, and political satire.
- Epilogue and Acknowledgments: Wraps up the book with reflections on the show’s enduring legacy and acknowledgments to those who contributed to the book.
Key takeaways:
- Saturday Night Live has played a significant role in American comedy, television, and popular culture for over four decades.
- The show has faced numerous challenges and controversies throughout its history, but has continued to evolve and stay relevant.
- The behind-the-scenes process of creating a live sketch comedy show is highly demanding and collaborative, and success is dependent on the contributions of writers, cast, crew, and hosts.
- Saturday Night Live’s impact extends beyond its cast and creators, as it has influenced the careers of its hosts and guest stars and shaped the landscape of television and comedy writing.
Author’s background and qualifications:
Tom Shales is a Pulitzer Prize-winning television critic, journalist, and author. He has been a media columnist for The Washington Post and a writer for several publications, including TV Guide and Esquire. Shales has also written books about other television shows and figures, such as “Playboy: The Complete Centerfolds” and “James Andrew Miller.”
Target audience:
Fans of Saturday Night Live, lovers of comedy and television history, and anyone interested in behind-the-scenes stories of a groundbreaking television show.
Publisher and first publication date:
Back Bay Books, 2003