Kris Kristofferson hosted the season finale, and his laid-back, country-musician persona set a relaxed tone for the show. He seemed to have a good time, though his comedic timing wasn’t always the sharpest. The episode featured a number of sketches that played on his “outlaw” image. The writing felt a little tired, as if the cast and crew were ready for a summer break after a long, historic season. However, the musical performances were a clear highlight, with Kristofferson and his then-wife Rita Coolidge performing together beautifully. It was a decent, if unspectacular, end to a season that had completely changed the landscape of television comedy. A fittingly low-key farewell.
Host Kris Kristofferson sings “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” while cast member Chevy Chase makes out with Kristofferson’s wife, Rita Coolidge.
Kris Kristofferson, Rita Coolidge, July 31, 1976, SNL Season 1, SNL Season 1 Episode 24
