Ep 19. Richard Dreyfuss/Jimmy Buffett
- TVPG
- May 13, 1978
- 67 min
-
7.5 (101)
In season 3, episode 19 of Saturday Night Live, Richard Dreyfuss takes on hosting duties, joined by legendary musician Jimmy Buffett as the musical guest. The episode, which originally aired on May 14, 1978, is packed with skits and sketches that play off Dreyfuss's acting chops and Buffett's laidback style.
The show kicks off with a spoof of the classic game show "The $25,000 Pyramid," with Dreyfuss and cast member Gilda Radner playing a pair of less-than-gifted contestants. The skit sets the tone for a night of zany humor and celebrity appearances, as Dreyfuss and the cast take on a variety of characters and scenarios.
One standout performance comes in a sketch called "Prison Food," in which Dreyfuss plays a prisoner trying to stomach the unappetizing meals served in jail. The scene devolves into a gross-out fest as Dreyfuss's character digs in to a plate of congealed eggs and rubbery chicken, gagging and grimacing all the while.
Another memorable moment comes in a short film called "The Bees," in which Dreyfuss and cast member Dan Aykroyd play two hapless apiarists who accidentally release a swarm of bees into a crowded city street. The segment mixes live action and animation to hilarious effect, as the bees wreak havoc on cars, buildings, and unsuspecting bystanders.
Of course, no episode of SNL would be complete without some political satire, and season 3, episode 19 delivers in spades. A skit called "Karl Marx Office Party" pokes fun at the communist philosopher and his cohorts, while a mock commercial for "Impeach Nixon" coffee mugs takes a pointed jab at the Watergate scandal and the president's impending downfall.
In addition to Dreyfuss and Aykroyd, the episode features appearances by SNL regulars like John Belushi, Chevy Chase, and Bill Murray, as well as guest stars like Candice Bergen and Carrie Fisher. But perhaps the most memorable moment of the night comes courtesy of musical guest Jimmy Buffett, who performs his hit song "Cheeseburger in Paradise" and leads the cast and audience in a raucous singalong.
All in all, season 3, episode 19 of Saturday Night Live is a classic example of the show's irreverent humor and creative energy. From celebrity impersonations to political satire to musical performances, the episode has something for everyone, and showcases the talents of some of the era's most iconic performers. Whether you're a die-hard SNL fan or just looking for a laugh, this episode is definitely worth a watch.