From the Archives: That Danitra Vance

Danitra Vance wasn't a household name. She should've been.

Quick note: In honor of Saturday Night Live's 50th anniversary celebration, this week I'm going to post some essays I've written about the show and the performers. I know I'm not the only one that was influenced by these Not Ready for Prime Time Players. Also don't forget if you like what you read here consider upgrading your subscription to paid. And I'm still taking donations here.

In 1985, Lorne Michaels was back where he belonged. He was back at the show he created, the one he walked away from in 1980. He had to get a new cast. No problem! This was the man who found Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Bill Murray, Jane Curtin, and Gilda Radner. He struck gold once, he would do it again!

The 11th season of SNL has been called "the weird season." There were glimmers of greatness: Terry Sweeney's Nancy Reagan was so good that eve…