Who was the first comedian to host NBC’s Saturday Night Live, in its 1975 premiere?

George Carlin was the first comedian to host NBC’s Saturday Night Live, appearing in the program’s 1975 premiere.

The episode aired on October 11, 1975, when the show was still called NBC’s Saturday Night. Carlin hosted but was not a regular cast member. The inaugural cast included performers such as Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, Chevy Chase, Jane Curtin, Laraine Newman, and Gilda Radner.

Carlin’s appearance was especially notable because he performed several different styles of comedy during the broadcast, including observational material and character-based routines. His hosting role helped establish the program’s tradition of inviting major comedians and entertainers to lead each episode.

A common mix-up is confusing the first host with the first musical guest. Billy Preston and Janis Ian supplied the premiere’s musical performances, while Carlin handled the hosting duties.