The Women of "SNL"

One thing "Saturday Night Live" doesn't have to worry about: lines at the women's restroom. After 35 years, and just in time for November sweeps, the late-night sketch comedy show recognizes their better halves. Historically, comediennes have made up less than a third of the not-ready-for-primetime players. The NBC show didn't start out that way: In 1975, the gender split was 50-50, but then the ladies lost ground. At the lowest point, women were... more 

One thing "Saturday Night Live" doesn't have to worry about: lines at the women's restroom. After 35 years, and just in time for November sweeps, the late-night sketch comedy show recognizes their better halves. Historically, comediennes have made up less than a third of the not-ready-for-primetime players. The NBC show didn't start out that way: In 1975, the gender split was 50-50, but then the ladies lost ground. At the lowest point, women were afterthoughts, but some much-needed estrogen shots dragged "SNL" into the 21st century and into a new golden age. But the Season 36 looks like a throwback, with a 10:4 ratio — marginally better than the behind-the-scenes 20:5 male-female writers. Looks like it is indeed time to salute the most memorable ladies of "SNL." less