After five decades of gut-busting sketches, unforgettable characters, and legendary performances, Saturday Night Live commemorated its golden anniversary with a colossal celebration that united generations of comedic brilliance. The star-studded extravaganza, which aired on February 17, 2025, paid homage to the show’s illustrious history while showcasing its enduring impact on popular culture.
A Nostalgic Opening
The night began on a poignant note as Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Homeward Bound.” The duo’s performance, bridging the generational gap, set the tone for an evening filled with nostalgia and reverence for SNL’s legacy.
Veteran host Steve Martin kicked off the festivities with a playful monologue, poking fun at the show’s longevity and his own age. Surprise appearances by John Mulaney and Martin Short added to the comedic banter, reminding viewers of the show’s knack for unexpected cameos.
Beloved Characters Return
Fans were treated to a parade of iconic characters throughout the night. Kristen Wiig‘s eccentric Denise Maharelle stole the spotlight in a Laurence Welk Show sketch, while Kenan Thompson reprised his role as the host of Black Jeopardy, featuring surprise contestant Eddie Murphy as himself. The return of these beloved characters showcased SNL’s ability to create timeless comedic personas.
Musical Tributes and Collaborations
Music has always been an integral part of SNL, and the anniversary special did not disappoint. Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard delivered a stirring rendition of “Nothing Compares 2 U,” paying tribute to the late Sinéad O’Connor, whose controversial 1992 performance on the show remains etched in viewers’ memories. Later, Paul McCartney closed out the night with an emotional performance of “Carry That Weight,” symbolizing the show’s enduring legacy.
Weekend Update Reunions
The special dedicated a significant portion to the show’s flagship segment, Weekend Update. Anchors Colin Jost and Michael Che welcomed back beloved correspondents, including Cecily Strong‘s “The Girl You Wish You Hadn’t Started a Conversation With at a Party” and Bobby Moynihan‘s “Drunk Uncle.” The reunion of these cherished characters, along with appearances by former anchors Seth Meyers and Bill Murray, celebrated the segment’s enduring comedic impact.
A Broadway-Style Tribute
In a grand musical number, John Mulaney and Pete Davidson led an all-star cast through a Broadway-inspired journey chronicling the history of New York City. The extravagant performance featured appearances by Maya Rudolph, Nathan Lane, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and countless others, showcasing the show’s ability to attract top talent across various entertainment fields.
Remembering Fallen Comrades
Amidst the laughter and celebration, the special took moments to honor the memory of cast members who have passed away. Adam Sandler‘s heartfelt musical tribute to his late friends Chris Farley and Norm Macdonald left the audience misty-eyed, while a poignant short film featuring an elderly John Belushi visiting the graves of his departed colleagues added a somber yet touching note to the proceedings.
The Lorne Michaels Effect
Throughout the night, the influence of creator and executive producer Lorne Michaels was palpable. From the numerous references to his exacting standards to the heartfelt tributes paid by cast members past and present, Michaels’ indelible mark on the show and the comedy world at large was evident. As Martin Short eloquently stated in his closing remarks, “Lorne Michaels is the heart and soul of Saturday Night Live.”
“Maybe the secret of life is there are no big whoops, only a series of small, agonizing whoops.”
– Mike Myers as Linda Richman
As the star-studded event drew to a close, the overarching sentiment was one of gratitude and awe for the comedic institution that has shaped generations. The Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special served as a reminder of the show’s unparalleled ability to entertain, provoke, and unite audiences through laughter. As the curtain fell on this momentous occasion, one thing remained clear: the laughter will continue for years to come.
