Live from New York: The Little Guide to Saturday Night Live

Since Chevy Chase first uttered the phrase ‘Live from New York, it’s Saturday night,’ Saturday Night Live has grown from the vision of Canadian comedian Lorne Michaels to be a cultural institution.

And while the early days of cocaine-fuelled all-night writing sessions have given way to the world’s biggest names treading the boards in Studio 8H, SNL remains must-see TV and the ultimate goal of any aspiring young comedian.

Everyone has a favourite cast member, a favourite sketch and a favourite quote. After 46 years on air, how could you not?

SAMPLE QUOTE: ‘In a brilliant move during closing arguments, Simpson attorney Johnnie Cochran put on the knit cap prosecutors say O.J. wore the night he committed the murders. Although O.J. may have hurt his case when he suddenly blurted out Hey, hey, easy with that, that’s my lucky stabbing hat! ’ - As seen on quotes.net. Saturday Night Live (1975) - Norm MacDonald

SAMPLE FACT: SNL hasn’t just launched successful comedy careers: Oscar award-winning composer Howard Shore was the show’s first musical director. Shore was a childhood friend of Lorne Michaels and went on to score The Lord of the RIngs films, among others.