There are few television institutions that have shaped comedy, culture, and entertainment quite like Saturday Night Live. So when the show turned 50, I knew this anniversary special was something I couldn’t miss. Having spent years watching SNL sketches, marveling at the way it has evolved with time, and appreciating the countless comedians it has introduced to the world, this was more than just another milestone—it was a cultural moment, a celebration of creativity, satire, and unfiltered humor that has defined generations.
On February 16, 2025, Studio 8H became the epicenter of nostalgia, humor, and history as NBC aired the SNL 50 anniversary special. It wasn’t just a television event—it was a time capsule of half a century of laughter. I found myself counting down the days, eager to see how Lorne Michaels and his team would craft a tribute worthy of the show’s legacy. And they did not disappoint.
The Journey to the Special
The build-up to SNL 50 was electric. NBC knew how to set the stage, airing several specials that took us deep into the show’s history. The four-part documentary SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night gave an intimate look at the evolution of SNL, with behind-the-scenes footage and interviews from former cast members. Another highlight was Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music, which reminded us of the show’s impact on music history. Then, just two days before the big event, the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert at Radio City Music Hall brought together legendary musicians like Lady Gaga, The Roots, and Arcade Fire for a night that felt like a family reunion.
Seeing this deep dive into SNL’s legacy was an emotional experience. It reminded me why this show has always been more than just sketch comedy—it’s a time capsule of American culture, a mirror reflecting our political and social realities while providing much-needed laughter. Watching these retrospectives was like walking through a museum of comedy, each segment revealing something new about the evolution of humor, from the irreverent anarchy of the early days to the polished satire of today.
The Night of the Show
The moment the special began, I was hooked. Seeing Paul Simon and Sabrina Carpenter perform “Homeward Bound” was the perfect way to open the night. It immediately set the emotional tone—this was about legacy, about remembering how far this show had come. Then came Steve Martin, effortlessly delivering an opening monologue that reminded us why he has been one of SNL’s most beloved hosts.
What made this special truly magical was its blend of nostalgia and fresh energy. It wasn’t just about looking back; it was about celebrating what’s still to come. Sketches like Celebrity Jeopardy! brought back Will Ferrell in his iconic Alex Trebek role, while Wayne’s World reunited Mike Myers and Dana Carvey for a hilarious Top Ten list about SNL itself. Seeing The Californians with an all-star cast made me realize just how much SNL’s humor has become ingrained in pop culture.
As I watched these classic sketches come back to life, I couldn’t help but marvel at the talent that has passed through SNL’s halls. The sheer number of legendary comedians who got their start on this stage is staggering. It’s as if every major name in comedy—from Eddie Murphy to Tina Fey to Bill Hader—owes some part of their career to this institution. That’s what made this night so powerful; it wasn’t just a retrospective, it was a testament to the enduring power of live sketch comedy.
A Musical and Emotional Rollercoaster
The music performances were just as breathtaking. Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard delivered a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Nothing Compares 2 U, while Adam Sandler, joined by Dan Bulla, sang an original song titled 50 Years, a tribute to the show’s past and present. Then came Lil Wayne and The Roots, turning Studio 8H into a full-fledged concert. But it was Paul McCartney who sealed the night with a medley of Golden Slumbers, Carry That Weight, and The End. Seeing McCartney there, on that stage, felt like a poetic closing chapter to an unforgettable celebration.
Music has always been a critical part of SNL’s identity. It’s where legends like Nirvana, Prince, and David Bowie created unforgettable television moments. The musical performances at SNL 50 weren’t just filler; they were an integral part of the story. These performances reminded us that SNL isn’t just about comedy—it’s about artistic expression in every form.
Honoring Those We Lost
What made SNL 50 even more poignant was its tributes to those who are no longer with us. Gilda Radner, Chris Farley, Norm Macdonald—these legends shaped SNL’s history, and their presence was felt throughout the night. Jane Curtin, Adam Sandler, and others shared heartfelt memories that made us laugh and cry. John Belushi’s memory was honored by his brother, Jim Belushi, who recalled how magical it was to watch the original Blues Brothers performance on that very stage.
These tributes were a reminder of SNL’s emotional depth. Yes, it’s a comedy show, but it’s also a family. When we lose one of these icons, it’s not just the industry that mourns—it’s all of us. Seeing these tributes, I was reminded of the impact that SNL has had not just on entertainment but on our hearts. It’s a show that has made us laugh during the best and worst of times, and that connection is deeply personal.
A Love Letter to SNL
Watching this special, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own journey with SNL. This wasn’t just a show I watched; it was a part of my life. It was what I turned to for laughter during difficult times, what introduced me to some of my favorite comedians, and what made me appreciate the brilliance of live comedy.
SNL 50 wasn’t just a celebration of the show—it was a celebration of everyone who has ever tuned in, laughed along, and felt a connection to this cultural powerhouse. As the credits rolled and Paul McCartney’s final notes echoed, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the past 50 years, for the creators, for the cast members who gave their all, and for the millions of fans who, like me, understand just how special Saturday Night Live truly is.
In a world that’s constantly changing, SNL has remained a constant. It’s a show that has weathered political turmoil, social upheaval, and cultural shifts, always finding a way to make us laugh. As I sat there, watching this historic tribute, I knew one thing for certain: Saturday Night Live isn’t just a television show. It’s a living, breathing piece of history.
Here’s to 50 more years.