Celebrating 50 Years of Saturday Night Live

On February 17, 2025, Saturday Night Live (SNL) celebrated 50 years of iconic comedy with a special anniversary event in New York City. This star-studded, 3.5-hour event brought together legendary performers, classic sketches, and unforgettable musical acts. Let’s take a look at the biggest highlights of this historic celebration.

A Nostalgic Opening Performance to Celebrate SNL’s Legacy

The anniversary event started with a nostalgic performance by Paul Simon and Sabrina Carpenter, who sang the classic “Homeward Bound.” Their performance immediately set the tone for the evening, reminding the audience of SNL’s rich legacy and cultural impact.

Steve Martin followed with a comedic monologue that had the audience laughing out loud. He shared behind-the-scenes stories from his time on the show, reflecting on some of the most memorable moments of his career. His humor was playful and heartfelt, perfectly capturing the essence of SNL.

Iconic SNL Sketches Make a Grand Return

The 50th-anniversary celebration wouldn’t be complete without revisiting some of the most beloved iconic sketches that helped define SNL over the years. Several fan-favorite sketches made a grand return, bringing back the magic of the early years:

Fred Armisen Revives “The Lawrence Welk Show”

Fred Armisen brought back the quirky and memorable sketch “The Lawrence Welk Show.” The revival was full of playful humor, reflecting the show’s unique ability to entertain with a lighthearted approach to satire.

Kenan Thompson Hosts “Black Jeopardy” with Special Guests

A major highlight was the return of Kenan Thompson’s “Black Jeopardy,” featuring Eddie Murphy and Tom Hanks. Their comedic timing and witty banter made this segment one of the night’s most memorable. The humor was sharp, timely, and relatable, making fans laugh out loud.

Mike Myers Brings Back “Coffee Talk”

Mike Myers revived his beloved character from the iconic “Coffee Talk” sketch. His quirky, over-the-top performance had fans reminiscing about the classic humor that made SNL such a cultural phenomenon.

Bill Murray’s Cameo on “Weekend Update”

Legendary comedian Bill Murray made a surprise appearance during “Weekend Update.” His dry humor and reflective comments added a nostalgic touch to the evening, reminding the audience of the show’s comedic roots.

Special Musical Performances Celebrate 50 Years of SNL

The 50th-anniversary event also featured some incredible musical performances, celebrating the longstanding tradition of SNL showcasing legendary musical acts. Here are the standout performances from the night:

• Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard teamed up to sing “Nothing Compares 2 U,” leaving the audience mesmerized with their raw vocal talent and emotional delivery.
• Lil Wayne joined The Roots for a high-energy performance that captivated the audience with his dynamic stage presence.
• The night concluded with a medley of timeless hits by Paul McCartney, who closed the celebration on a nostalgic note.

Honoring the Legends of SNL

The anniversary celebration also featured an emotional tribute to SNL legends. Hosted by Tom Hanks, the “In Memoriam” segment paid tribute to the late cast members and guest stars who contributed to the show’s success. Their impact on SNL and the world of comedy was celebrated in this heartfelt moment.

Adam Sandler’s Heartfelt Tribute

One of the most emotional moments of the night was Adam Sandler’s tribute song to the 50 years of SNL. The song reflected on the laughter, joy, and memories the show has given to its audience, bringing fans to tears.

SNL’s Impact on Comedy: From Then to Now

Since its debut in 1975, SNL has shaped comedy and pop culture. The show has always been at the forefront of tackling political satire, current events, and social issues, making it one of the most influential programs on television.

Adapting to the Digital Age and Expanding Its Reach

In recent years, SNL has adapted to the digital age by expanding its presence across social media and streaming platforms. This has allowed the show to remain relevant, ensuring it continues to reach new generations of viewers while maintaining its loyal fan base.

The Future of SNL: What’s Next for the Legendary Show?

As SNL looks to the future, the 50th-anniversary celebration proves that the show’s cultural influence and innovative spirit are far from fading. While facing challenges, SNL continues to innovate and adapt, ensuring it remains a staple of comedy for many more years to come.

For more about SNL’s history, performances, and sketches, visit the official Saturday Night Live website: NBC SNL.