The 50th-anniversary celebration of “Saturday Night Live” was a star-studded affair that brought together iconic characters, memorable skits, and legendary musical performances for a night of nostalgia and entertainment. The live, prime-time event on NBC featured a plethora of familiar faces, from the returning cast members to special guest appearances by renowned musicians. The event kicked off with a cold open performance by Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon, followed by a monologue from Steve Martin, with John Mulaney and Martin Short making special appearances.
Musical guests included Miley Cyrus, Brittany Howard, Lil Wayne with The Roots, and Paul McCartney, who graced the stage with their electrifying performances. The red carpet event, hosted by Leslie Jones, set the stage for the star-studded evening, featuring a mix of old and new faces that have graced the iconic Studio 8H over the years.
The weekend-long celebration began with “SNL50: The Homecoming Concert” at Radio City Music Hall, showcasing a diverse lineup of artists who have performed on the show throughout its history. From Cher to Lady Gaga, Wyclef Jean to Nirvana, the concert was a testament to the show’s cultural impact and enduring legacy. Sketches interspersed between performances added a comedic flair to the musical extravaganza, making it a truly unforgettable experience for fans of the show.
The special event on Sunday brought together original cast members like Chevy Chase, Jane Curtin, and Laraine Newman, who paid tribute to their late castmate John Belushi. The emotional moment of Curtin and Newman hoisting a photo of Gilda Radner tugged at the heartstrings of viewers, reminding us of the show’s rich history and the beloved cast members who have graced its stage.
As the night unfolded, several standout moments captured the essence of “SNL50” and left a lasting impression on viewers. From the comedic genius of Domingo’s character reprisal to Meryl Streep’s first-ever appearance on the show, the evening was filled with surprises, laughter, and star-studded performances that delighted audiences.
One of the highlights of the evening was a musical sketch paying tribute to New York City, featuring iconic Broadway parodies and celebrity cameos that added a touch of humor and whimsy to the event. The sketch showcased the versatility and comedic talent of the cast, bringing to life the vibrant spirit of the city that never sleeps.
The “Weekend Update” segment brought together Colin Jost and Michael Che for a hilarious take on the show’s history and legacy. With celebrity cameos, memorable characters, and witty banter, the segment was a true testament to the enduring popularity of the show’s signature news segment.
In a surprising turn of events, Will Ferrell stole the show with his hilarious prison booty shorts and pasty white legs, providing a much-needed dose of comedy and levity to the evening. The bonus content featuring the Culps, reprised by Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer, added a touch of musical nostalgia to the weekend-long celebration, showcasing the enduring appeal of the iconic characters.
Overall, “SNL50: The Anniversary Special” was a night to remember, filled with laughter, music, and nostalgia that celebrated the show’s rich history and cultural impact. As fans and viewers reflected on the iconic moments and characters that have graced the “SNL” stage over the years, the evening served as a reminder of the show’s enduring legacy and its ability to entertain and inspire audiences for generations to come.
