Saturday Night Live has been a cultural phenomenon for half a century, and its 50th-anniversary celebration was nothing short of spectacular.
With a lineup packed with Hollywood’s biggest names, the milestone event was a nostalgic journey through comedy, music, and unforgettable sketches. From iconic alumni to surprise guest appearances, the night was brimming with laughter, music, and jaw-dropping moments.
A-Listers Galore: Who Showed Up?
The star power at “SNL 50” was off the charts. The audience was treated to appearances from legendary comedians, past cast members, and Hollywood heavyweights. Kim Kardashian, Meryl Streep, Eddie Murphy, Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Jon Hamm, Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Kristen Wiig, Will Ferrell, Martin Short, Tom Hanks, Chris Rock, and many more gathered to honor the beloved sketch comedy show.
The event was filled with exciting reunions and surprise cameos. Former cast members teamed up with current SNL comedians, while celebrities who had previously hosted the show made triumphant returns. With so many iconic figures in one place, it was a night to remember.
Kim Kardashian and Meryl Streep Steal the Spotlight
Kim Kardashian took part in an unforgettable skit that saw her join forces with comedic legends Kristen Wiig, Will Ferrell, and Fred Armisen. The sketch, a reboot of the classic Lawrence Welk parody, had audiences roaring with laughter.
Meryl Streep, known for her award-winning dramatic performances, surprised everyone with her impeccable comedic timing. She appeared in a reimagined version of the “Close Encounter” sketch alongside Pedro Pascal, Woody Harrelson, and Jon Hamm, proving that even Oscar winners can master the art of SNL-style comedy.
Musical Magic: Sabrina Carpenter, Miley Cyrus & More
The night kicked off with a mesmerizing performance by Sabrina Carpenter, who shared the stage with the legendary Paul Simon for a stunning duet. Later, Carpenter teamed up with Pedro Pascal and Bad Bunny for a new take on the infamous “Domingo Wedding” sketch, which brought the house down with its comedic brilliance.
Another show-stopping musical moment came when Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard delivered a heartfelt tribute to Prince. Their performance of Sinéad O’Connor’s hit “Nothing Compares 2 U” was an emotional highlight, reminding audiences of the deep cultural impact of both artists.
Eddie Murphy and Tracy Morgan on “Black Jeopardy”
A fan-favorite segment of the night was “Black Jeopardy,” featuring Eddie Murphy, Tracy Morgan, Chris Rock, and Tom Hanks. Murphy and Morgan hilariously played off each other, adding a new layer of humor to the long-running sketch. Their comedic chemistry left fans reminiscing about their classic SNL days, proving that their comedic brilliance hasn’t faded one bit.
Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively & The Coneheads Mystery
Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively shared a hilarious moment during a Q&A session with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. Reynolds jokingly inquired about the materials used to make the Coneheads’ iconic headpieces, only to learn they were likely highly toxic. His exaggerated reaction had the entire audience in stitches.
Aubrey Plaza’s Poignant Return
Aubrey Plaza made her first public appearance since the passing of her husband, Jeff Baena. She was met with an outpouring of love from fans and fellow celebrities. Her presence added an emotional depth to the evening, serving as a reminder of the close-knit community that SNL fosters among its alumni and guests.
Jack Nicholson’s Surprise Cameo & Adam Sandler’s Tribute
In one of the night’s most unexpected moments, legendary actor Jack Nicholson made a rare public appearance. The 87-year-old icon was introduced by Adam Sandler, who performed a heartfelt song paying tribute to SNL cast members who have passed away. The touching performance was a beautiful homage to the history and legacy of the show.
Final Curtain Call: The Legacy of SNL
As the night drew to a close, the original SNL cast members, including Laraine Newman, Jane Curtin, Garrett Morris, and Chevy Chase, joined the stage to celebrate five decades of comedy. They paved the way for generations of comedic talent, from Dana Carvey and Cheri Oteri to Chris Farley and Keenan Thompson.
The event ended with a heartfelt moment of gratitude for the mastermind behind SNL, Lorne Michaels. As the cast and crew gathered around, the audience was reminded of the show’s incredible legacy and its impact on the world of comedy.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for SNL?
With 50 years under its belt, SNL has solidified itself as a cornerstone of American entertainment. The 50th-anniversary celebration was a testament to the show’s ability to evolve while maintaining its core comedic essence. As Season 50 continues, fans can look forward to more groundbreaking sketches, unforgettable moments, and, of course, surprise celebrity cameos.
In the words of the SNL team, “We love you all—goodnight and God bless!”