SNL Season 50: Celebrating 50 Years of Live Comedy
Milestone Season Overview
Saturday Night Live’s 50th season marks a monumental milestone for the legendary sketch comedy series. The season opened on September 28 with Jean Smart hosting and Jelly Roll performing, setting the tone for a star-studded lineup that included Ariana Grande, Stevie Nicks, Billie Eilish, and Coldplay. Each episode brought a unique blend of humor and music, showcasing both returning cast favorites and special guest appearances that celebrated SNL’s 50-year legacy.
Hosts and Musical Guests
This season featured a dynamic mix of hosts and musical performers. Highlights included Michael Keaton hosting with Billie Eilish performing, John Mulaney with Chappell Roan, and the season finale with Scarlett Johansson hosting and Bad Bunny performing. Scarlett Johansson also set a record as the female host with the most appearances in SNL history. The lineup reflected a blend of legendary stars and current pop culture icons, ensuring both nostalgia and contemporary relevance.
Cast Changes and Returns
The 50th season saw notable cast transitions. Punkie Johnson, Molly Kearney, and Chloe Troast departed, while Marcello Hernández, Michael Longfellow, and Devon Walker were promoted to Repertory Cast. New additions included Ashley Padilla, Emil Wakim, and Jane Wickline. Returning favorites such as Kenan Thompson, Mikey Day, and Maya Rudolph made appearances, maintaining continuity while introducing fresh energy. These shifts kept the ensemble dynamic, highlighting both veteran talent and emerging stars.
Special Episodes and Highlights
The SNL50 special three-hour episode celebrated 50 years of live television, featuring cold opens, cast tributes, classic sketches, commercial parodies, and musical performances. The season finale offered a memorable moment with Scarlett Johansson humorously performing a Billy Joel-inspired number, blending comedy and heartfelt emotion. Unexpected moments, such as post-episode interactions and cast embraces, added a human touch to the historic celebrations, leaving a lasting impression on fans.