Ep 12. Bob Newhart/Des'ree

Bob Newhart hosts this episode of Saturday Night Live season 20, with musical guest Des'ree. The episode starts with a cold open of the Republican Presidential Debate, featuring Phil Hartman as Bill Clinton and Dana Carvey as George H.W. Bush. The monologue sees Bob Newhart recounting stories from his long stand-up comedy career, with a bit of help from Chris Farley.

The first sketch is a game show called "Take the Stand," where contestants must answer questions in a courtroom setting. Chris Farley's character, a dim-witted defendant, steals the show with his hilarious answers and antics. Next, a parody news segment covers the recent controversy surrounding former SNL cast member Victoria Jackson's comments on homosexuality. Tim Meadows delivers a standout performance as Jackson.

Following this is a game show called "Starnose," where the contestants must match celebrity nose prints to their names. The sketch features some absurdly large noses and ridiculous celebrity impressions from the cast. "Weekend Update" sees Kevin Nealon deliver the news, with guest appearances by Adam Sandler as Cajun Man and Chris Farley as motivational speaker Matt Foley.

After "Weekend Update," Bob Newhart continues his hosting duties with a commercial parody for "Zagat's Exotic Restaurants." The sketch features an over-the-top narrator and some bizarre dining experiences. The next sketch is a parody of "The Joey Bishop Show," featuring Bob Newhart as the titular host and a surprise appearance by Alec Baldwin as his guest, Marlon Brando.

The final sketch before Des'ree's musical performance is a mock Republican campaign commercial for Bob Dole. In the sketch, Dole is portrayed as a bitter old man, with scenes of him grumbling about his opponents and commiserating with the ghosts of former Presidents Reagan and Nixon. Des'ree performs her hit single, "You Gotta Be," and the episode ends with a farewell from the cast.

Overall, Saturday Night Live season 20 episode 12 is a solid episode, with hilarious sketches and a charming performance by Bob Newhart as host. The episode also features some of the standout cast members from the era, including Chris Farley and Adam Sandler. Musical guest Des'ree adds a soulful touch to the show with her inspiring hit single. Fans of classic SNL will enjoy this episode.