The Early Years of SNL: S05E11 Elliott Gould/Gary Numan (2/16/80) 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

The Early Years of SNL: S05E11 Elliott Gould/Gary Numan (2/16/80)

December 09, 2025 • Two Pints Productions, Inc.

SNL looks to pick up the pieces as it turns into the back half of Season 5 as old standby Elliott Gould returns to become the third host in show history to do it a fifth time (a feat that wouldn’t be repeated for over six years). Gould clearly knows his way around the show, as evidenced by his “laissez-faire” approach to this episode, yet he isn’t given much material to work with.

It’s not a good sign when the only bit the man notorious for always kicking off his Saturday Night Live appearances with a song and dance is reduced to simply eating a carrot stick for his monologue. He’s forced to wait until he dresses up as a bear for an uncopyrighted Canadian retelling of “The Wizard of Oz” sketch to do both. But, the episode does kick off with a fun cold open that turns into a runner – something we have not seen for quite awhile – and Harry Shearer continues to shine when he’s given the spotlight. And, the show continues to showcase new and interesting musical acts with Gary Numan as this week’s musical guest.

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