Amy Goes 'Obama' on Parks and Rec

(NEWSER) - Fans of Saturday Night Live’s “Weekend Update” segment won't have to wait for the weekend to get their update, as NBC plans to air up to 13 primetime, half-hour episodes on Thursday nights next season, the New York Times reports. Seth Meyers will reprise his usual hosting gig, though "Update" vets Tina Fey and Amy Poehler will likely be tapped for guest appearances. More»

(NEWSER) - Wallowing in a muddy fourth place among major networks, NBC is betting on Amy Poehler to clean up its ratings with Parks and Recreation, Will Leitch writes in New York magazine. A mockumentary style sitcom “from the people who bring you The Office”—as NBC ads are trumpeting—the show also tanked in test screenings that found it "slow" and "predictable." But, producers say, the show captures the national zeitgeist. debuting this week, More»

Reprised role just a cameo for new mom

(NEWSER) - Amy Poehler made a surprise return to Saturday Night Live as Hillary Clinton, reports TV Guide, but the appearance was only a cameo. With Darrell Hammond at her side as husband Bill, Poehler lampooned Clinton's appointment as secretary of state in an opening sketch. The comedienne gave birth 6 weeks ago and is working on an NBC sitcom. More»

Late-night is the standout hit of the fall season

(NEWSER) - The fall TV ratings are in, and while Heroes needs saving and House is collapsing, Saturday Night Live has emerged as the biggest hit of the season, Maureen Ryan writes in the Chicago Tribune. Unlike other shows, SNL’s live ratings have jumped nearly 50% in its 34th season. “It’s the hottest it’s been since the early years,” remarked one analyst. More»

Dem pokes fun at herself, campaign

(NEWSER) - She was supposed to be campaigning in Ohio last night—but instead Hillary Clinton was live from New York. Like last week, Saturday Night Live opened with a debate sketch parodying a recent Clinton-Obama debate, with the Dems played by SNL regulars. The real Hillary appeared immediately after with an “Editorial Response.” More»