SNL Celebrates 50 Years With Star-Studded Anniversary Special

NEW YORK — “Saturday Night Live” celebrated its 50th anniversary on February 16, 2025, by hosting a star-studded special that brought together iconic cast members, musical guests, and celebrity surprises, marking half a century of groundbreaking comedy on NBC.

The special, featuring legendary guests including Paul Simon, who opened the show with a rendition of “Homeward Bound” alongside contemporary pop star Sabrina Carpenter, invited nostalgia while also celebrating the show’s impact on American culture. Steve Martin delivered a humorous monologue as he reflected on the milestone and the legendary cast that has graced its stages over the decades.

During the three-and-a-half hour live event, special tributes highlighted unforgettable moments from the series’ history, with Martin and other former cast members reminiscing about their time on the show. “I literally wanted to leap into the air. … The only reason I didn’t was at the time I was wearing a short skirt with no underwear,” Martin joked in his opening remarks.

As the special progressed, various sketches and performances punctuated the evening. John Mulaney provided commentary on the evolution of New York City, while Jack Nicholson introduced a musical performance by Adam Sandler, who performed a comedic song celebrating 50 years of SNL.

The show also featured poignant moments, including an “In Memoriam” segment led by Tom Hanks, paying tribute to beloved sketches and characters that have not stood the test of time. The montage prompted laughter and reflection from the audience and viewers alike.

Musical performances punctuated the night, with Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard joining forces to cover the late Sinéad O’Connor’s hit, “Nothing Compares 2 U.” Lil Wayne and Sir Paul McCartney also graced the stage, highlighting SNL’s long-standing association with musical excellence.

“It’s a brutal game out here,” said former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning during an interview, expressing his desire for Lorne Michaels, the show’s executive producer, to remain at the helm. Manning commented on the difficulties of retirement and the unique challenges faced by television producers.

Cecily Strong reprised her role from “Weekend Update,” humorously addressing the tensions of modern life, while original cast members reflected on their legendary run. Many cast members, including Kristi Wiig and Maya Rudolph, expressed their excitement over the reunion, celebrating the community built at SNL.

Martin Short closed the event with heartfelt remarks, thanking Lorne Michaels and the original cast that made the show a household name, stating, “This is a family reunion.” In a nostalgic closing, the ensemble of performers and cast members took to the stage to bid farewell to viewers, celebrating the lasting legacy of SNL and its cultural contributions over the years.