As Saturday Night Live (SNL) reached its milestone 50th anniversary, the special episode commemorating the show’s legacy was nothing short of spectacular. Packed with nostalgic callbacks, surprise celebrity appearances, and unforgettable sketches, the event celebrated half a century of comedy, music, and cultural influence. Here are the top 10 moments from the SNL 50th Anniversary special.
10. The Return of the “Not Ready for Prime Time Players”
One of the most emotional moments of the night was the tribute to the original cast of SNL. Surviving members like Dan Aykroyd, Jane Curtin, and Bill Murray took the stage to share stories about the early days, honoring the late Gilda Radner, John Belushi, and others who paved the way for the show’s success.
9. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler’s “Weekend Update” Comeback
Fan-favorite anchors Tina Fey and Amy Poehler returned to the Weekend Update desk, delivering their signature sharp wit and seamless comedic timing. Their segment playfully roasted modern-day politics and pop culture while reflecting on some of their most memorable moments as Update hosts.
8. Eddie Murphy’s Triumphant Return
Eddie Murphy, one of the most legendary SNL alumni, made a rare appearance to revive his iconic characters, including Gumby and Mr. Robinson. The audience erupted in cheers as he delivered classic lines and added fresh, updated humor to his beloved personas.
7. Celebrity Cameos Galore
The episode was a star-studded affair, featuring surprise appearances from comedy legends and A-list celebrities. Steve Martin and Martin Short delivered a hilarious monologue, while Paul Rudd, Kristen Wiig, and John Mulaney made memorable contributions to the night’s sketches.
6. “More Cowbell” Reunion
One of SNL’s most famous sketches, “More Cowbell,” was revisited in a new way. Will Ferrell reprised his role as Gene Frenkle, and Christopher Walken returned to once again plead for “more cowbell.” This modern take had a fresh spin, keeping fans laughing while paying homage to the original.
5. Musical Performances by Iconic SNL Guests
Music has always been a crucial part of SNL, and the anniversary special delivered unforgettable performances. Paul McCartney and Miley Cyrus teamed up for a powerful duet, and former musical guests like Foo Fighters and Beyoncé made appearances, celebrating the show’s long history of legendary performances.
4. Bill Hader’s “Stefon” Steals the Show
Bill Hader returned as Stefon, the over-the-top city correspondent on Weekend Update. His signature hand-over-mouth giggles and bizarre nightclub recommendations had the audience in stitches, reminding everyone why he remains one of the most beloved characters in SNL history.
3. “Live from New York, It’s Saturday Night!” Montage
A beautifully edited montage featuring 50 years of SNL cold opens showcased how the phrase “Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!” has evolved over time. The tribute included clips of original cast members, legendary hosts, and some of the most unforgettable openings in the show’s history.
2. The Ultimate “Celebrity Jeopardy!” Revival
The anniversary episode wouldn’t have been complete without Celebrity Jeopardy!. Will Ferrell reprised his role as Alex Trebek, while Darrell Hammond’s Sean Connery and Norm Macdonald’s classic Burt Reynolds impression were honored in a hilarious new version of the sketch, featuring fresh impersonations and unexpected twists.
1. Lorne Michaels’ Heartfelt Tribute
The most touching moment of the night came when Lorne Michaels, the creator and longtime executive producer of SNL, took the stage for a heartfelt speech. He reflected on the show’s incredible journey, paid tribute to the many cast members and crew who contributed over the decades, and expressed gratitude to the loyal fans who have kept SNL alive for 50 years. His words brought the perfect close to a night celebrating the show’s enduring impact on comedy and culture.
Final Thoughts
The Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary special was a nostalgic and hilarious trip through the show’s illustrious history. From legendary cast reunions to modern-day sketches with a twist, the night was a testament to the enduring power of SNL. As the show continues to evolve, this celebration reminded audiences why SNL remains a cornerstone of American comedy and entertainment.
