SNL Season 4, Episode 4: Steve Martin

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EPISODE GRADE

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MUSIC GRADE

The 4th Episode of Season 4 of Saturday Night Live aired on November 4, 1978. The host was Steve Martin, and the musical guest was Van Morrison.
By his fifth hosting appearance, Steve Martin was essentially an honorary cast member, and this episode was another absolute gem. The show was packed with brilliant, high-concept comedy, including the debut of his song “I’m Not A Comedian Anymore,” a perfect parody of celebrity self-importance. The sketch featuring him and Gilda Radner as two dancers in “Dancing in the Dark” was a masterpiece of physical comedy and heartfelt performance. The entire episode was smart, silly, and relentlessly funny. Martin’s ability to be both absurd and charming is unmatched. Van Morrison was a fantastic musical guest, delivering soulful and powerful performances. This was another flawless entry in the Martin/SNL canon, a show firing on all cylinders.

Steve Martin SNL Season 4 Cold Open

President Jimmy Carter (Dan Aykroyd) insists that “inflation is our friend” in a White House message.

November 4, 1978

Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!

Delivered by Dan Aykroyd

Episode Details

SNL Episode #70
Air Date: November 4, 1978
Producer: Lorne Michaels
Head Writer: None
Host: Steve Martin
Host Count: 6
Episode Rank for Season: 1
IMDB Rating: 7.8