Watch Saturday Night Live: The Best of John Belushi

Saturday Night Live: The Best of John Belushi is a compilation episode of SNL, celebrating the life and work of one of its most iconic cast members, John Belushi. The show originally aired on NBC in 2005 as part of the SNL: Weekend Update Thursday special series. The hour-long episode is a collection of some of Belushi's most memorable sketches, characters, and musical performances from his time on the show from 1975 to 1979.

The episode begins with a heartfelt introduction by Dan Aykroyd, Belushi's longtime friend and comedy partner on SNL. Aykroyd speaks about Belushi's natural comedic talent, energy, and fearless spirit that made him stand out on the show. He also reminisces about their time together on the Blues Brothers and their bond as brothers in comedy.

The show then launches into a series of sketches, including some of Belushi's most famous characters such as Jake Blues, the samurai, and the cheeseburger guy. The audience is reminded of Belushi's versatility as a performer as he effortlessly switches from one character to another, each one more absurd and hilarious than the last.

Some of the most memorable and well-known SNL sketches featuring Belushi are showcased in this episode. "Samurai Delicatessen" has the samurai reluctantly slicing raw fish in a sushi restaurant with hilarious consequences, while "The Thing That Wouldn't Leave" features Belushi as an annoying houseguest who refuses to leave, much to the exasperation of his hosts.

Belushi's musical performances on SNL are also highlighted in the episode. His cover of "With a Little Help from My Friends" as Joe Cocker and his duet with Aykroyd as the Blues Brothers are both classic moments that defined Belushi's time on the show. The energy and passion he brought to every performance have made him a beloved figure in SNL history.

The episode also features some behind-the-scenes footage of Belushi interacting with his fellow cast members on set. Belushi's genuine enthusiasm for comedy and his contagious energy are evident in these scenes, further highlighting the loss the entertainment industry experienced with his passing.

Throughout the episode, it's hard not to be struck by the sheer comedic talent of John Belushi. His unique brand of physical comedy and fearless commitment to every character he played made him a standout on SNL and a pioneer in the world of comedy. The show is a fitting tribute to his legacy and serves as a testament to the impact he had on the entertainment industry.

Saturday Night Live: The Best of John Belushi is a must-watch for fans of SNL and anyone who appreciates comedy at its finest. Belushi's quick wit, infectious energy, and fearless commitment to every performance make this episode a true masterpiece of comedic genius. It's hard not to be left with a sense of awe and respect for the man who embodied the spirit of SNL during its early years and whose legacy continues to inspire generations of comedians to this day.