SNL Season 4, Episode 5: Buck Henry

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EPISODE GRADE

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MUSIC GRADE

The 5th Episode of Season 4 of Saturday Night Live aired on November 11, 1978. The host was Buck Henry, and the musical guest was Grateful Dead.
Buck Henry’s annual visit always signals a well-written, professional show, and this Thanksgiving episode was no exception. Henry’s dry wit is the perfect anchor for the cast’s energy. The show is best remembered for the classic “The Loud Family” sketch, a simple but hilarious idea executed perfectly. John Belushi also had a memorable turn as a man obsessed with a new video game. The episode had a warm, holiday feel without being overly sentimental. The Grateful Dead, in their second appearance, provided a long, mellow set of their signature jam-band rock, which was a treat for their fans. It was another solid, dependably funny, and intelligent outing from one of the show’s most reliable hosts.

Buck Henry SNL Season 4: Episode 5 Cold Open

Bill Murray appears as a political candidate named Dennis V. Hunkler, who must concede an election due to his own bumbling missteps.

November 11, 1978

Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!

Delivered by Laraine Newman

Episode Details

SNL Episode #71
Air Date: November 11, 1978
Producer: Lorne Michaels
Head Writer: None
Host: Buck Henry
Host Count: 7
Episode Rank for Season: 2
IMDB Rating: 6.7