While exploring Chicago over Interim break, some buddies and I stumbled across Billy Goat Tavern, a burger joint and Windy City landmark tucked under Michigan Avenue. The restaurant’s rich history covered the walls in a collage of celebrity pictures, newspapers clippings and memorabilia. Upon approaching the counter, we were bombarded by a woman who was more salesperson than waiter and who, in a matter of seconds, assured us that we each wanted a “double cheezeborger” before letting us know that there were “no fries, only chips” and “no Pepsi, Coke.”

The script that the waitress gave us would mean little to people, such as myself, who are unfamiliar with the roots of Saturday Night Live. Long-time fans of the show, however, ought to remember a 1978 sketch starring John Belushi and Bill Murray called “Olympia Cafe” that was based on the operations and persistent staff of Billy Goat Tavern.

Now, many years after this iconic sketch, SNL is celebrating 40 years of laughs with a special three-hour reunion show to air this Sunday night on NBC.

This anniversary is a huge landmark for a live audience show and demonstrates that, despite low ratings over the past several seasons, SNL has been able to evolve its risky and outrageous satire to actively engage culture and events.

For much of its run, SNL has been a breeding ground for a constant stream of comedic talent. Such notables as Adam Sandler, Will Ferrell and Eddie Murphy have started their careers in these hallowed studios.

NBC has confirmed that the aforementioned cast members as well as Chevy Chase, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Billy Murray, Mike Meyers, Jimmy Fallon, David Spade and others both veteran and more recent will make appearances throughout the three-hour special.

Hopefully the show’s writers will take advantage of the collective wealth of talent and give us new material, placing older cast members alongside more recent actors; it would be a shame if the show was devoted strictly to replaying old sketches.

This could be a great opportunity to both play off of the show’s great history and demonstrate its importance and relevance. Regardless of what direction the writers decide to take, the many returning faces should keep the night exciting and nostalgic.