SNL Season 4, Episode 2: Fred Willard

Fred Willard is a master of understated, awkward comedy, and he brought that unique sensibility to the show. The episode felt smart and slightly off-center, perfectly suited to his style. A sketch where he plays a hopelessly inept host of a talk show called “What If?” was a standout, showcasing his talent for playing comically bland characters. The cast was in top form, with Bill Murray’s recurring “Nick the Lounge Singer” character making a wonderfully cheesy appearance. The musical guest was Devo, whose bizarre, robotic performance of “Satisfaction” was a jolt of new-wave energy that was both baffling and brilliant. It was a very cool, consistently funny episode that highlighted a unique comedic voice and a groundbreaking musical act.