Peacock’s ‘Beyond Saturday Night’ Offers Fresh Look at SNL’s Legacy

NEW YORK — As “Saturday Night Live” celebrates its 50th anniversary, Peacock‘s new docuseries, “Beyond Saturday Night,” offers a fresh perspective on the iconic sketch comedy show. The four-part series, which premiered Jan. 16, delves into behind-the-scenes moments, from auditions to the writers’ room, revealing the challenges and triumphs of creating live comedy.

The first episode focuses on the grueling audition process, where hopefuls have exactly five minutes to impress. Former producer Ayala Cohen describes the often excruciating silence that greets performers. “I’m too genuine and honest of a person to fake a laugh,” she says. The episode also features cast members like Tracy Morgan and Amy Poehler revisiting their own auditions, with Poehler wincing after just 30 seconds of footage.

The second episode takes viewers inside the writers’ room, where the pressure to deliver is immense. Writers have just 24 hours after meeting the host to pitch sketches to executive producer Lorne Michaels, whose approval is the ultimate gatekeeper. Former writer Simon Rich recalls the anxiety of the process, noting that some sketches received “pity laughs” to keep morale from plummeting.

One of the series’ highlights is its exploration of iconic sketches, such as the 2000 “More Cowbell” sketch featuring Will Ferrell and Christopher Walken. Ferrell reveals that the idea stemmed from his childhood curiosity about the cowbell in Blue Oyster Cult‘s 1976 hit. “At the time,” Jimmy Fallon recalls, “no one had faith that the sketch would air.” Yet it became one of the show’s most beloved moments.

The docuseries also doesn’t shy away from failure, dedicating an entire episode to the disastrous 1984-85 season. Despite a star-studded cast that included Damon Wayans, Robert Downey Jr., and Joan Cusack, the season was widely panned. Wayans was even fired midseason after expressing dissatisfaction with the writing during a live broadcast. The episode examines the factors behind the season’s collapse, though it leaves some questions unanswered.

“Beyond Saturday Night” stands out for its focus on the unsung heroes of “SNL,” including producers, set designers, and makeup artists. Their contributions, often overshadowed by the show’s on-screen talent, are given their due. The series also features interviews with notable alumni like Billy Crystal, Tina Fey, and Bowen Yang, but it’s the offscreen insights that truly captivate.

As “SNL” continues to shape comedy and culture, “Beyond Saturday Night” offers a timely and compelling look at the show’s enduring legacy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a casual viewer, the docuseries provides a fresh appreciation for the artistry and chaos behind one of television’s most iconic programs.