VINTAGE NR4PTP: The Early Years of SNL: S2E6 Buck Henry/The Band (10/30/76) Artwork

The Not Ready for Prime Time Project: An SNL Retrospective

An in-depth journey into the legacy of one of television's most iconic and influential shows - Saturday Night Live. Through deep dives into its most memorable eras, behind-the-scenes stories, and analysis of its evolution, we celebrate and debate all things SNL - the show that has become an institution, defining comedy for over 50 years.

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The Not Ready for Prime Time Project: An SNL Retrospective

VINTAGE NR4PTP: The Early Years of SNL: S2E6 Buck Henry/The Band (10/30/76)

October 28, 2025 • Two Pints Productions, Inc.

Saturday Night Live has aired live on Halloween only FOUR times in its 50+ years. As a treat this week, we're releasing a VINTAGE episode of The Early Years of SNL looking back at the memorable Season 2 outing hosted by Buck Henry that came close—airing just one day before Halloween and marking the first time the show leaned into the holiday.

The episode is filled with spooky sketches and scary characters, but it's perhaps better known for two reasons: the infamous moment when John Belushi accidentally hit Buck Henry in the head with his samurai sword, cutting him on live television, and serving as Chevy Chase's final episode as a cast member.

In addition, this historic night also marked the final television appearance for the original lineup of The Band.

We were joined by The Saturday Night Network's Jon Schneider once again to help break down this memorable episode.

This episode was originally released on November 7th, 2023.

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