Eddie Murphy is heading back to Saturday Night Live because it looks like the sketch show needs some saving again.
Murphy first appeared on SNL in November 1980, when critics and fans alike labeled the show dead.
“Out of nowhere, Eddie saved Saturday Night Live, ” comedian Chris Rock said during the NBC show’s 40th-anniversary special. “If Saturday Night Live hadn’t hired Eddie Murphy, this show wouldn’t have lasted half as long as Baywatch.”
But Murphy hasn’t returned to the SNL stage since he left in 1984 to peruse a movie career. Until now. SNL announced part of its fall slate of hosts and musical guests on Monday, a list that includes Murphy as host of this year’s Christmas episode.
SNL returns for its 45th season on September 28.
