A 1991 episode of “Saturday Night Live,” featuring Wilmington native Michael Jordan as host, has been ranked 49th on a fan-voted list of the show’s 50 greatest episodes. This ranking comes as part of the celebrations surrounding “Saturday Night Live” reaching its 50th anniversary.
The episode aired on September 28, 1991, just months after Jordan claimed his first NBA championship with the Chicago Bulls. Joining him was the hip-hop group Public Enemy as the musical guest. Despite its notable placement in the list curated by the podcast Saturday Night Network, hosts reviewing the episode expressed skepticism regarding its ranking, with comments about Jordan’s hosting ability being less than stellar.
Among the memorable sketches was “Daily Affirmation with Stuart Smalley,” in which future U.S. Senator Al Franken played a nurturing character who humorously encouraged Jordan. This included lines that had Jordan struggling to maintain a straight face while affirming his worthiness. The episode also featured iconic sketches like “Wayne’s World” and “Bill Swerski’s Super Fans,” showcasing Chicago’s pride in both their football and basketball teams.
Podcast host Bill Kenney questioned whether the episode would have the same acclaim if Jordan’s career trajectory had been different, suggesting that his early success may have influenced perceptions of the show. Other episodes that were part of this ranking included performances by Patrick Swayze, David Alan Grier, and Anne Hathaway, highlighting the diverse range of talent that “Saturday Night Live” has showcased throughout the years.
The nostalgic reflection on this episode underscores Jordan’s significant cultural impact, both within the realm of sports and entertainment. It serves as a reminder of his legacy, not just on the basketball court but also in popular media. The combination of humor, star power, and specific historical context makes this episode a notable part of “SNL” history and a cherished fan favorite.