'%20x='0'%20y='0'%20height='100%25'%20width='100%25'%20%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20xlink%3Ahref='data:image/jpg;base64,/9j/2wBDAAYEBQYFBAYGBQYHBwYIChAKCgkJChQODwwQFxQYGBcUFhYaHSUfGhsjHBYWICwgIyYnKSopGR8tMC0oMCUoKSj/2wBDAQcHBwoIChMKChMoGhYaKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCgoKCj/wAARCAAHAAoDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFQABAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAX/xAAfEAACAQQCAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgMABAYREkEFMWH/xAAUAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAD/8QAGxEAAgEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAxExUZH/2gAMAwEAAhEDEQA/AI1xmy3N0I/EyMsUTFZeQKA/ND31QZFMAOUKM3ZJ1ulKGTlfLGVZ6XD/2Q=='%3E%3C/image%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Chevy Chase, who is regarded as one of the most influential comics, was one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live (SNL). Though Chase spent only two seasons on the show, his contributions would leave an indelible mark on SNL’s legacy.
Jimmy Fallon paid tribute to Chase on the recent SNL 50: The Anniversary Special, expressing his gratitude, Fallon said,
“Without you, there wouldn't be no Saturday Night Live, buddy.”
(Post via X/@Deadline)
Chase was one of the original cast members when SNL debuted in 1975 as a writer and performer. He made an immediate impression with his dry wit, physical comedy, and memorable impersonations, including of President Gerald Ford at the time (Britannica).
His work on the Weekend Update segment, which he helped create with the writers Al Franken and Herb Sargent, became a centerpiece of the show. The opening line of Chase’s segment, “I’m Chevy Chase, and you’re not,” became one of SNL’s most memorable catchphrases.
Chevy Chase’s short stint on SNL had its controversial moments. According to Britannica, his colleagues didn’t always know what to make of him, including John Belushi, and his leaving was not mourned by all.
His later appearances on the show, including a guest-hosting stint in 1978, were tense, including a backstage controversy with Bill Murray, who had replaced him. After leaving SNL, Chase then had a successful film career, starring in hits like Caddyshack and the National Lampoon’s Vacation series.
But his reputation for being difficult stuck, with accusations of abrasive behavior in the NBC sitcom Community where he starred for a brief moment. Co-star Donald Glover had accused Chase of making racially insensitive comments.
More about SNL 50: Homecoming Concert and Chevy Chase's surprise appearance
The SNL 50: The Homecoming Concert at Radio City Music Hall was a star-studded celebration. It came prior to the show’s 50th anniversary special. The event, hosted by Jimmy Fallon, included performances by music legends such as Bad Bunny, Lady Gaga, Cher, and Snoop Dogg.
Trending
Highlights of the night included Lady Gaga’s performance of “Shallow” and a comedic sketch from Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer. Among the noteworthy invitees were Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Meryl Streep.
For the anniversary special, Chevy Chase was reunited with his fellow season one castmates: Jane Curtin, Garrett Morris, and Laraine Newman. The concert celebrated the artistic legacy of Saturday Night Live with musical tributes to its most memorable sketches and talents.
Your perspective matters!
Start the conversation
