SNL Season 4, Episode 20: Buck Henry

A

EPISODE GRADE

B

MUSIC GRADE

The 20th Episode of Season 4 of Saturday Night Live aired on May 26, 1979. The host was Buck Henry, and the musical guest was Bette Midler.
The season finale saw the return of old reliable Buck Henry and the divine Bette Midler. Henry, as always, was the consummate professional, ensuring a smart and funny show. The episode is most famous for the final appearance of the original cast. John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd announced they were leaving, and Gilda Radner’s “Roseanne Roseannadanna” character delivered a touching and funny farewell. It felt like the end of an era. Bette Midler’s performances were spectacular, and her closing number, a poignant “Goodnight, Sweetheart,” was the perfect emotional send-off for a cast that had changed television forever. A funny, emotional, and historic season finale.

Buck Henry SNL Season 4: Episode 20 Cold Open

Jane Curtin complains that she’s never had the opportunity to say the “Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!” opening line, while Mr. Bill makes an appearance.

May 26, 1979

Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!

Delivered by John Belushi

Episode Details

SNL Episode #86
Air Date: May 26, 1979
Producer: Lorne Michaels
Head Writer: None
Host: Buck Henry
Host Count: 8
Episode Rank for Season: 5
IMDB Rating: 7.8