A spectacular three-hour special was held to honor the 50-year legacy of the beloved American comedy show, Saturday Night Live (SNL). The event unfolded live from Studio 8H in New York City on a Sunday evening, showcasing a rich history that has launched the careers of numerous comedic legends such as Eddie Murphy and Bill Murray, since its premiere in October 1975.
The milestone event showcased memorable performances from music and comedy stars, meshing the old with the new. Highlights included a duet by Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon, who sang the classic "Homeward Bound." Simon, a veteran of early SNL episodes, humorously noted the generational gap by acknowledging Carpenter's youth.
In a surprise reunion, Nirvana took the stage with Post Malone, introduced by actor Adam Sandler. This emotional return brought nostalgia as Sandler recounted the late Kurt Cobain's final performance on SNL. The band performed "Smells Like Teen Spirit," adding to the evening's celebratory spirit.
In typical SNL fashion, politics and current affairs were woven into the show. Ryan Reynolds made an appearance during a humorous Q&A session that referenced a high-profile legal dispute, lightening the mood amid ongoing drama in the celebrity world.
Aubrey Plaza, appearing for the first time since her husband's passing, introduced a moving performance featuring Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard, honoring the late Sinead O'Connor's "Nothing Compares 2 U" in tribute.
Meryl Streep surprised fans with her comedic prowess, taking on a sketch that featured her pinning for Pedro Pascal while referencing her iconic role in "The Devil Wears Prada." In a nod to nostalgia, original cast member Garrett Morris appeared, delighting audiences with a throwback to the show’s inception.
Additionally, the special saw the return of viral character Domingo, featured in a humorous vow renewal sketch, along with a cheeky performance involving Kim Kardashian, notable for her previous SNL appearance with Pete Davidson.
Adam Sandler contributed with a musical tribute, recalling past cast members and their significant contributions to SNL’s history, while Tom Hanks delivered a satirical "In Memoriam" segment poking fun at how certain sketches have aged.
Overall, the SNL50 celebration was a vibrant homage filled with laughter, music, and nostalgia, expertly intertwining the past with the present, ensuring that the legacy of Saturday Night Live continues to resonate for audiences both old and new.
