Television Feed

"SNL Has Always Been Bad"

Argument that a key to SNL's success is the chance that on any given night the show might bomb. In other words, unpredictability.

All these examples of badness highlight the dynamism that powers SNL: the sense of real risk, the constant threat that a show won’t work.

Which is interesting because years ago I read a piece that claimed what made Johnny Carson so successful what the perception that on any given night there was a small chance that something wild and wonderful would happen. Examples: Ed Ames and the tomahawk, Burt Reynolds and shaving cream down the pants, and Carson finding out that Rickles broke his cigarette box.

And I also read a piece that claimed that the success of the Rat Pack in the 60s was its unpredictability. (I can't find that piece now but this Washington Post piece references the Pack's "unpredictable performances".)


"The Anti-Woke King of Hollywood Lets Loose"

I enjoyed Tulsa King, especially the first season. I liked Mayor of Kingstown although it is certainly the darkest thing I've ever watched on TV. And I really enjoyed Landman. Billy Bob Thornton is terrific in it and the "anti-woke" monologues are simply outstanding

So, yeah, I think Taylor Sheridan is awesomely talented and I hope he lives long and (continues to) prosper.