SNL Marks 50 Years with Star-Studded Anniversary Celebration

NEW YORK — Saturday Night Live kicked off its 50th anniversary celebration with a star-studded special airing live on Sunday, showcasing iconic cast members and musical performances that defined the past five decades of late-night television.

The three-hour event, titled SNL50: The Anniversary Special, featured appearances from former cast members who left their mark on the show, including Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, Will Ferrell, and Adam Sandler. The show also welcomed current cast members like Kenan Thompson and Bowen Yang, underlining the continuity and evolution of SNL over the years.

Those tuning in enjoyed a blend of live sketches and pre-recorded segments, celebrating the unforgettable characters born from the minds of some of comedy’s biggest stars. Notable appearances included long-time hosts like Steve Martin and more recent favorites like John Mulaney and Dave Chappelle.

Throughout the special, fans reminisced about SNL’s history, recalling how it shifted the landscape of American sketch comedy since its debut in 1975. The show’s creator, Lorne Michaels, played a crucial role, curating a veritable who’s who of comedic talent across its history.

Scarlett Johansson, married to current host Colin Jost, made a surprise appearance, underscoring the personal connections to the show’s legacy. Meanwhile, musical guests like Miley Cyrus and Paul McCartney added to the celebratory atmosphere with performances of classic hits.

NBC also announced earlier that the special would showcase several generations of SNL alumni, hinting at appearances from the original cast members, such as Chevy Chase and Jane Curtin. These nostalgic returns highlighted the enduring impact of the show on popular culture.

The event came on the heels of a pre-celebratory concert featuring past musical guests and strong performances. SNL50: The Homecoming Concert, which streamed live on Peacock, included acts from the likes of Bad Bunny and Lady Gaga, further emphasizing SNL’s role in launching musical careers alongside comedic ones.

As the anticipation built over the month leading to the anniversary, two documentary projects dedicated to SNL’s legacy were released on Peacock: SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night, providing behind-the-scenes insights, and Ladies and Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music, chronicling the variety show’s musical influences.

The enduring popularity of Saturday Night Live is not just a testament to its humor but also its ability to adapt and remain culturally relevant throughout the decades. This landmark celebration serves not only to honor SNL’s past but also to strengthen its future as it continues to influence and entertain audiences.