That Show – Joan Rivers Hosts SNL

Nick revisits Joan Rivers’ one and only stint as host of Saturday Night Live, a wild ride that aired in April 1983. At the time, Rivers was a comedy powerhouse—known for her sharp tongue, fearless punchlines, and an endless supply of Liz Taylor jokes. While the sketches written for her weren’t exactly Emmy material, she powered through with her trademark grit and timing, turning even the clunkiest bits into something watchable. Highlights include a surreal moment where Joe Piscopo plays Joan in drag, and Eddie Murphy shows up as himself—but aged several decades. Rivers’ monologue, packed with self-deprecating zingers, was easily the strongest part of the night and got big laughs. The episode also featured a solid cast lineup, including a young Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Brad Hall, Gary Kroeger, and Mary Gross doing their best with a strange assortment of sketches. Nick also shares clips and insights from a rare interview with Joan Rivers herself, where she opens up about her hosting experience—and why she was never invited back. Turns out, being a comedy legend doesn’t guarantee a return ticket to Studio 8H. [EP 129]