Snl’s Original “not Ready For Prime Time Players”: Where Their Careers Took Them Next

Alright, gather 'round, folks. I've got a tale to spin about a bunch of misfits who took the world by storm in the '70s. You might know them as the original Not Ready For Prime Time Players, the cast of Saturday Night Live's first season. Now, buckle up, 'cause we're going on a wild ride through their post-SNL careers. It's like a box of chocolates, folks - you never know what you're gonna get.

Dan Aykroyd: The Man Who Could Do It All

First up, we've got Dan Aykroyd, the Canadian heartthrob who could impersonate anyone from Richard Nixon to Julia Child. After SNL, he joined forces with John Belushi to form the Blues Brothers, turning a sketch into a full-blown musical phenomenon. Did you know they once performed for the Queen of England? True story!

But Dan wasn't just a one-trick pony. He co-wrote and starred in the classic comedy Ghostbusters, proving that even ghosts can't resist his charm. And if that wasn't enough, he also founded the House of Blues chain. Yeah, you can thank Dan for that delicious BBQ you enjoyed last weekend.

John Belushi: The Wild One

Speaking of the Blues Brothers, let's talk about their fearless leader, John Belushi. This guy was a force to be reckoned with - both on and off screen. After SNL, he starred in The Blues Brothers film, turning it into a cult classic. He also gave us the hilarious Animal House, where he played the legendary Bluto.

But Belushi's career wasn't all laughs. He was also a talented musician, playing with the likes of The Rolling Stones and Aerosmith. Sadly, his wild lifestyle caught up with him, and he passed away in 1982. But his legacy lives on, and his influence can still be seen on comedy stages today.

Gilda Radner: The First Lady of SNL

Now, let's talk about the lovely Gilda Radner, often referred to as the First Lady of SNL. She brought us iconic characters like Roseanne Roseannadanna and Baba Wawa. After SNL, she starred in films like Hairspray and The First Wives Club.

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But Gilda's career wasn't just about laughs. She was also a pioneer in the fight against cancer, founding the Gilda's Club organization to provide support for cancer patients and their families. She passed away in 1989, but her spirit lives on in the laughter she brought to the world and the lives she touched.

Chevy Chase: The Original Weekend Update Host

Remember Chevy Chase, the original host of Weekend Update? After SNL, he became a Hollywood heartthrob, starring in films like Caddyshack and National Lampoon's Vacation. He even hosted the Tonight Show for a spell, proving that he was a force to be reckoned with.

But Chevy's career wasn't all smooth sailing. He's had his fair share of controversies, from feuding with fellow comedians to getting into trouble on set. But hey, you can't keep a good comedian down. He's still out there, making us laugh - even if it's sometimes at his own expense.

Laraine Newman: The First Female Cast Member

Here's a fun fact for you: Laraine Newman was the first female cast member of SNL. After leaving the show, she continued to make us laugh in films like Little Shop of Horrors and Beethoven. She also lent her voice to animated shows like The Simpsons and Futurama.

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But Laraine's not just a comedic powerhouse - she's also a talented musician. She's played with the likes of Frank Zappa and The Tubes. Talk about a Renaissance woman!

Jane Curtin: The Queen of Deadpan

Last but not least, we've got Jane Curtin, the queen of deadpan comedy. After SNL, she starred in the hit sitcom The Mary Tyler Moore Show. She also hosted the game show Concentration, proving that she could make anything look easy.

But Jane's not just a comedic powerhouse - she's also a passionate advocate for social causes. She's been a longtime supporter of the National Organization for Women and has used her platform to speak out on issues like women's rights and LGBTQ+ equality.

And there you have it, folks - a whirlwind tour through the post-SNL careers of the original Not Ready For Prime Time Players. It's been a wild ride, hasn't it? From Blues Brothers to Ghostbusters, these comedic legends have left an indelible mark on the world. So here's to them - may their laughter live on forever!