Sabrina Carpenter teams up with Paul Simon on Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary show
To commemorate 50 years of Saturday Night Live, a star-studded cast came together for a special three-hour event at Studio 8H in New York City’s Rockefeller Centre. This legendary US comedy show, known for its sketches and celebrity hosts, first premiered in October 1975 and has helped launch the careers of renowned comedy icons like Eddie Murphy and Bill Murray. During the anniversary special, both returning veterans and younger acts took the stage to celebrate the show’s rich legacy.
The SNL50 celebration kicked off with a captivating performance by Sabrina Carpenter alongside Paul Simon, where they mesmerized the audience with a duet of Simon and Garfunkel’s classic hit, Homeward Bound. This musical moment set the tone for the evening and paid homage to the show’s history, as Simon had performed the same song alongside George Harrison in one of the early episodes of SNL. Carpenter, a rising star, brought a fresh energy to the stage, joking about her generation’s distance from the show’s inception.
A standout moment came when the iconic band Nirvana reunited once again, this time with surprise guest Post Malone joining the surviving members of the band in a powerful performance of Smells Like Teen Spirit. Introduced by actor Adam Sandler, the performance was a poignant nod to the band’s musical legacy and their previous appearances on SNL. The camaraderie and energy on stage were truly electrifying and captured the essence of the show’s musical history.
The special also featured a clever skit that humorously mirrored real-life celebrity drama, referencing an ongoing legal dispute between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively. The witty banter and sharp exchanges between the actors added a comedic twist to the night, showcasing the show’s ability to stay relevant and current with pop culture references and news events. It was a reminder of SNL’s knack for blending satire with social commentary in a lighthearted yet impactful manner.
Actress Aubrey Plaza made a poignant return to the spotlight in her first public appearance since the passing of her husband, director Jeff Baena. Plaza’s heartfelt introduction to Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard’s performance of Sinead O’Connor’s hit, Nothing Compares 2 U, was a touching moment that resonated with the audience. Her subtle tribute to her late husband through her choice of attire added a personal touch to the evening and showcased the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
The legendary Meryl Streep made her SNL debut in a hilarious sketch, showcasing her versatility and comedic timing as she interacted with Pedro Pascal in a flirtatious role. Streep’s self-referential humor and witty one-liners added to the entertainment value of the show, proving that even esteemed Hollywood stars can embrace the spontaneity and humor of live comedy. Her playful nod to her iconic role in The Devil Wears Prada was a crowd-pleaser, demonstrating her enduring appeal and talent.
An ensemble of original cast members and iconic characters graced the stage, including Garrett Morris, the first black performer on Saturday Night Live from its inaugural season. Morris’s return to the studio elicited cheers and laughter from the audience, as he humorously reflected on the show’s evolution and the frequent reunion shows over the years. His presence added a touch of nostalgia and authenticity to the event, reminding viewers of the show’s enduring legacy.
SNL50 also featured the hilarious antics of fan-favorite character Domingo and his brothers, played by Bad Bunny and Pedro Pascal, in a comedic reunion that delighted audiences. The return of these beloved characters added a fun and playful element to the special, showcasing the show’s ability to create memorable and relatable comedic moments that resonate with viewers. The chemistry between the actors and the infectious energy they brought to the stage exemplified the enduring appeal of SNL’s comedic genius.
Kim Kardashian’s return to the SNL stage sparked renewed interest and excitement, as she joined former cast members in a revamped version of the singing Maharelle Sisters skit. The playful banter and camaraderie between the performers added a dynamic element to the show, highlighting the collaborative and improvisational nature of live comedy. Kardashian’s presence, along with her fellow performers, offered a fresh twist on classic SNL sketches and reinvigorated the iconic characters for a new generation of viewers.
In a heartfelt tribute to past cast members who have passed away, Adam Sandler performed a moving song that honored the rich history of SNL and celebrated the contributions of beloved performers. His poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery paid homage to the enduring legacy of the show and the impact it has had on the comedy landscape. The touching tribute served as a reminder of the talent and creativity that have shaped Saturday Night Live over the past five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.