Saturday Night Live Season 12 Episode 15 Charlton Heston/Wynton Marsalis
- Not Rated
- March 28, 1987
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6.7 (110)
In season 12, episode 15 of Saturday Night Live, iconic Hollywood actor Charlton Heston hosts the show alongside jazz musician Wynton Marsalis. The episode originally aired on March 14th, 1987.
The show opens with a sketch featuring Heston as a Bible-thumping politician speaking to a crowd about the dangers of liberalism and the virtues of conservatism. The sketch satirizes Heston's well-known conservative views and his involvement with the National Rifle Association.
Next, comedian Jon Lovitz portrays Michael Dukakis in a mock presidential campaign ad. Lovitz's Dukakis character is meek and unassertive, playing on Dukakis' image as a boring and uncharismatic candidate.
In another sketch, Heston stars in a parody of the popular game show "Jeopardy!" In the sketch, Heston plays a character similar to his portrayal of Moses in the movie "The Ten Commandments," complete with flowing robes and a staff. The sketch pokes fun at Heston's reputation as a serious actor and his penchant for playing larger-than-life historical figures.
Marsalis also makes several appearances throughout the episode, performing musical numbers and participating in sketches. In one sketch, Marsalis and the SNL cast members perform a musical tribute to New Orleans, complete with jazz music and Mardi Gras costumes.
The episode also features a Weekend Update segment with anchors Dennis Miller and Victoria Jackson. The segment includes jokes about current events and political figures, as well as a bit where Miller "interviews" Heston in character as Moses.
Overall, the episode is a mix of political satire, pop culture references, and musical performances. Heston's guest hosting appearance adds an element of Hollywood glamour to the show, while Marsalis' musical talent and affable personality make him a welcome addition to the SNL cast for the evening.
For fans of classic SNL, season 12, episode 15 is a must-watch for its mix of iconic guest stars, memorable sketches, and hilarious political satire.
