For many who grew up in the 1980s, Saturday nights on TBS Superstation held a special kind of spooky magic. This was the era of Super Scary Saturday, a hosted horror movie block that delivered chills, thrills, and a healthy dose of nostalgia right into living rooms across America. Running primarily from 1987 to 1989, this program became a beloved staple for horror fans, offering a curated selection of monster movies and creature features, all wrapped up with a memorable host.
The central figure of Super Scary Saturday was none other than Al Lewis, reprising his iconic role as Grandpa Munster from the classic 1960s sitcom The Munsters. Donning the familiar cape and fangs, Grandpa served as the jovial and slightly eccentric master of ceremonies for the evening. His presence instantly injected a sense of fun and lightheartedness into the often-macabre proceedings.
The Format: More Than Just Movies
Super Scary Saturday wasn’t simply a string of horror films. It was presented as a complete viewing experience, with Grandpa Munster providing interstitial segments throughout the night. These segments were a key part of the show’s appeal and typically included:
- Introductions: Before each movie, Grandpa would appear in his “screaming room” set, offering humorous banter, anecdotes (often relating to his fictional family), and sometimes even “facts” about the monsters featured in the upcoming film. These introductions set the tone and built anticipation for the scares to come.
- Interstitials: During commercial breaks, Grandpa would pop back on screen with more jokes, observations, and sometimes even interactions with special guests.
- Guest Appearances: A unique and memorable aspect of Super Scary Saturday was the occasional appearance of wrestlers from World Championship Wrestling (WCW), which was also owned by Ted Turner, the founder of TBS. These wrestlers would often promote their favorite monster from the night’s movies, creating a fun crossover for fans of both horror and professional wrestling. Imagine seeing the likes of Sting or Ric Flair discussing their admiration for Godzilla or Dracula!
- Promotions: Grandpa would also use his segments to promote upcoming events on TBS, further integrating Super Scary Saturday into the network’s programming.
The Movie Selection: A Mixed Bag of Monsters
The films showcased on Super Scary Saturday were a diverse mix of classic and not-so-classic horror. Viewers could expect to see:
- Universal Monsters: Beloved creatures like Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, the Wolf Man, and the Mummy were frequent guests on the show. These iconic films provided a foundation of classic horror for the audience.
- Giant Monster Movies: Films featuring colossal creatures, particularly those from Japan like Godzilla and Mothra, were popular choices. The sheer scale and destructive power of these monsters were always a thrill to watch.
- B-Movies and Cult Classics: Super Scary Saturday also delved into the realm of lower-budget horror films, often showcasing movies that had gained a cult following for their cheesy effects, over-the-top storylines, or sheer entertainment value.
- Sci-Fi Horror: Films that blended science fiction elements with horror themes, such as alien invasion movies or tales of mutated creatures, also found their place in the lineup.
This eclectic mix ensured that there was something for every type of horror fan, from those who appreciated the gothic atmosphere of the Universal films to those who enjoyed the campy thrills of a giant monster brawl.
The Impact and Legacy
Super Scary Saturday holds a special place in the memories of many who grew up watching it. It was more than just a television show; it was an event. Tuning in every Saturday night became a ritual, a chance to escape into the world of monsters and mayhem, guided by the familiar and humorous presence of Grandpa Munster.
The show contributed to:
- Introducing new generations to classic horror: Many young viewers were likely introduced to iconic monsters and films through Super Scary Saturday, sparking a lifelong interest in the genre.
- Creating a sense of community: For horror fans in the pre-internet era, the show provided a shared experience and a topic of conversation with friends and classmates.
- Nostalgia for the 1980s: The show is now fondly remembered as a quintessential part of 1980s pop culture, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a time when hosted movie shows were a common and cherished form of television entertainment.
While Super Scary Saturday eventually ended its run, its spirit lives on in the hearts of those who spent their Saturday nights glued to TBS, eagerly awaiting Grandpa’s latest quips and the monstrous mayhem that would follow. It serves as a reminder of a simpler time when a spooky movie and a charismatic host were all that was needed for a night of thrilling entertainment. The show’s unique blend of horror and humor, combined with the iconic presence of Al Lewis, made it a truly memorable and beloved part of 1980s television history. Sources and related content