Saturday Night Live Season 24 Episode 100 The Best of Dan Aykroyd
- September 5, 1998
In this special episode of Saturday Night Live, the show celebrates the comedic talent of Dan Aykroyd by showcasing some of his most memorable moments from his time on the show. The episode opens with a monologue from Aykroyd himself, reflecting on his time on SNL and expressing his gratitude for the experience.
The sketches featured in the episode span Aykroyd's time on the show, starting from the very first season in 1975. Fans of The Blues Brothers will be delighted to see performances from the iconic musical duo, including their rendition of "Soul Man" and "Rubber Biscuit." Aykroyd's portrayal of Julia Child in "The French Chef" sketch is also featured, showcasing his talent for physical comedy.
Other classic sketches featured in the episode include "The Killer Bees," which sees Aykroyd and John Belushi donning bee costumes to wreak havoc on a talk show, and "The Festrunk Brothers," where Aykroyd and Steve Martin play two wild and crazy guys looking for love. Fans of Aykroyd's impressions will enjoy his take on Jimmy Carter and Richard Nixon, as well as his spot-on portrayal of Rod Serling in a parody of The Twilight Zone.
In addition to the classic sketches, the episode also includes never-before-seen footage of Aykroyd performing with the SNL house band, including a blues jam with legendary guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan. The show also features clips from Aykroyd's many guest appearances, including his iconic turn as Beldar Conehead on "The Coneheads" sketch.
Throughout the episode, current SNL cast members share their thoughts on Aykroyd's impact on the show and on comedy as a whole. Many express their admiration for Aykroyd's ability to seamlessly transition between different characters and genres of comedy, and his dedication to creating memorable moments for both the audience and his fellow cast members.
The Best of Dan Aykroyd is a fitting tribute to one of the most iconic cast members in SNL history. Through his performances and contributions to the show's writing, Aykroyd helped shape the show into the cultural touchstone it is today. This episode serves as a reminder of his comedic talent and his enduring legacy.