SNL Season 4, Episode 12: Ricky Nelson

C-

EPISODE GRADE

D

MUSIC GRADE

The 12th Episode of Season 4 of Saturday Night Live aired on February 17, 1979. The host was Ricky Nelson, and the musical guest was Judy Collins.
Rick Nelson was a charming and handsome host who brought a touch of rock-and-roll history to the show. He was a good sport, appearing in a funny “Point/Counterpoint” segment and a sketch where he played a washed-up version of himself. The show felt a little low-energy at times, perhaps a reflection of the host’s laid-back style. The cast was solid as always, with Dan Aykroyd’s brilliant Julia Child impression providing a much-needed jolt of bizarre energy. Nelson performed his classic hits as the musical guest, which was a nice piece of nostalgia. Judy Collins also appeared to sing “Hard Times for Lovers.” A pleasant, if not particularly groundbreaking, episode.

Ricky Nelson SNL Season 4 Cold Open

WGN Morning Show Cold Open

February 17, 1979

Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!

Delivered by John Belushi

Episode Details

SNL Episode #78
Air Date: February 17, 1979
Producer: Lorne Michaels
Head Writer: None
Host: Ricky Nelson
Host Count: 1
Episode Rank for Season: 17
IMDB Rating: 7.1