After the entirety of the original cast had left SNL by 1980 as well as creator Lorne Michaels, the program was in a precarious position. Indeed the 1980-81 season is perhaps the worst of the 50 when associate producer Jean Doumanian took over show running duties.

There was one decision that failed season that literally saved the show and that was hiring Eddie Murphy at age 19. He joined SNL in the fourth episode that year and the rest was history. For the next four seasons, his comedic brilliance would shine brightly and turned Murphy into a phenom.

His mimicry skills were impeccable with classic bits like James Brown in a hot tub or the creation of Little Richard Simmons, a mashup of flamboyant singer Little Richard and fitness guru Richard Simmons. Other impersonations included James Brown and Stevie Wonder.

Mister Robinson was a takeoff on children’s host Fred Rogers with a more urban feel. One of the greatest pre-taped segments was “White Like Me” when Murphy came back to host in 1984 shortly after his departure. It was a preview of the kind of makeup effects he would become known for in The Nutty Professor and more years later. There’s Gumby (damnit) and Buckwheat and Velvet Jones. Buckwheat’s “assassination” is an all-timer.

Murphy would reprise many of these characters 35 years later in a triumphant Christmas show hosting gig in 2019. It was one more reminder of his vital contributions to SNL during a period where he also shot 48 Hrs., Trading Places, and Beverly Hills Cop and created the iconic stand-up special Delirious. The 40 years that followed are thanks to him and he deserves that credit. #1 will be up soon!

Eddie Murphy

Years on the Show: 1980-84