LOS ANGELES—In a surprising discovery for fans of the hit show Saved by the Bell, a lost episode called “Who Shrunk Saturday Morning” has resurfaced on YouTube. The episode, which originally aired on September 13, 1989, was a preview special featuring various celebrities and interwoven storylines. While the episode is not considered part of the show’s canon, it has gained a cult following among fans.
During this era, networks often aired preview specials to generate excitement for new shows. They typically included comedic skits or gimmicky themes, featuring a mix of celebrities from different programs. These specials were highly anticipated, as they were rarely re-aired or released on home media due to licensing limitations. One fan favorite was “Who Shrunk Saturday Morning,” which starred the cast of Saved by the Bell.
The special begins with the cast of Saved by the Bell standing in their iconic classroom, wondering where Zack and Screech are. They soon discover that the two have been shrunk and transported into Television Land through a malfunctioning shrinking machine. The adventure takes them through various surreal environments, encountering famous voices and previews of new shows. Meanwhile, Jessie and Kelly are left behind to deal with their own antagonist.
Despite its nonsensical plot, the special offers a unique glimpse into the creativity and tone of Saved by the Bell. The episode combines elements of classic films like “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” and “TRON,” with moments reminiscent of “The Wizard of Oz.” The gang must navigate these strange worlds and make it back before the school bell rings.
In addition to the beloved Saved by the Bell cast, “Who Shrunk Saturday Morning” features several notable celebrity cameos, including Sherman Hemsley and John Candy. The interactions between the celebrities and the cast are a highlight of the special, showcasing the chemistry and talent of the actors.
Fans of Saved by the Bell, as well as lovers of cartoons and obscure media, will find joy in rediscovering this lost episode. The low-budget sets and quirky visual elements of Television Land add to its nostalgic charm. Watching the special with the original commercials intact provides a time capsule of the era, including memorable moments like Alvin from the Chipmunks dancing with Michael Jackson.
While “Who Shrunk Saturday Morning” may not be officially recognized as part of Saved by the Bell’s storyline, it holds a special place in the hearts of fans. This rediscovery offers a delightful glimpse into the show’s early years and captures the essence of Saturday morning television in the late ’80s.