2. Nostalgia–This show started when I was 2, and I’m sure I saw it once or twice that year, though I don’t remember. However, since the Eddie Murphy era (when I was 9 or 10), I have distinct memories of staying up late to sneak a sketch or two, and I was a regular viewer by middle school. I fondly remember the glorious late 80s period with stars like Dennis Miller, Dana Carvey, Kevin Nealon and Mike Meyers, followed by Norm McDonald, and the whole Sandler/Farley/Spade triumvirate of frat humor. I have developed a fondness for the original Not Ready for Prime Time Players through many old episodes and clip shows, most notably the 25th anniversary special, which showcased many of the classic 70s sketches. When George Carlin passed away, the very first episode–which he hosted–was re-aired. It reminded those of us who hadn’t been there, just how much experimental stuff was done from day one. A lot of stuff flopped; a bunch of it was just plain weird. 35 years later, the crap has been edited out and we only see the stuff that worked. Aren’t rose-colored glasses the best?
