The 10th Episode of Season 1 of Saturday Night Live aired on January 17, 1976. The host was Buck Henry, and the musical guest was Bill Withers & Toni Basil.
Buck Henry was a writer’s host, and you could tell the episode was built on a foundation of clever, well-constructed sketches. His deadpan delivery was the perfect counterpoint to the cast’s more manic energy, especially John Belushi’s. The “Samurai Delicatessen” sketch was a masterpiece of physical comedy and precise timing. The show felt incredibly polished and professional, a sign that the writers and performers were now a well-oiled machine. “Weekend Update” was particularly sharp this week. The musical performances were stellar, with Bill Withers bringing incredible soul and Toni Basil delivering a uniquely energetic performance. A very smart and consistently funny episode that showcased the show’s growing confidence.
