Anniversary special of ‘Saturday Night Live’ kicks off with performances by Paul Simon and Sabrina Carpenter

The 50th anniversary special of “Saturday Night Live” kicked off with a bang as Paul Simon and Sabrina Carpenter joined forces for a duet of Simon’s classic track “Homeward Bound.” The legendary Steve Martin took center stage, delivering a nostalgic monologue that set the tone for the star-studded event filled with former cast members, celebrity hosts, and A-list guests.

Paul Simon, an integral part of “SNL” since its inception in 1975, reminisced about his previous appearance on the show with George Harrison in 1976. Sabrina Carpenter, a 25-year-old pop sensation, added a modern touch to the performance, joking about her lack of existence during Simon’s earlier days on the show, which drew laughter from the audience.

Celebrating fifty seasons of iconic sketches, musical performances, and memorable moments, the anniversary special is a testament to the show’s enduring legacy. Steve Martin, a recurring host since the show’s debut, brought his signature wit to the monologue, keeping the audience engaged with his humor and charm.

Joined by Martin Short and John Mulaney, Martin poked fun at the star-studded crowd, reminiscing about the show’s past and acknowledging its lasting impact on popular culture. Mulaney humorously noted the challenging nature of some of the show’s former hosts, highlighting the diverse range of talent that has graced the “SNL” stage over the years.

From launching the careers of comedic legends like Bill Murray and Eddie Murphy to providing a platform for groundbreaking talent like Tina Fey and Kristen Wiig, “Saturday Night Live” has been a breeding ground for comedic genius. The anniversary celebration featured appearances from Murphy and Wiig, showcasing their comedic prowess and paying homage to the show that helped catapult their careers.

The three-hour extravaganza marked the culmination of months of festivities dedicated to honoring the groundbreaking show that first aired in 1975. With its sharp satirical humor and iconic characters, “SNL” has become a cultural touchstone, tackling everything from politics to pop culture with unparalleled wit and insight.

Featuring a star-studded lineup of former cast members and hosts, the anniversary special was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, showcasing beloved characters, iconic sketches, and memorable moments from the show’s storied history. From Fred Armisen’s hilarious take on “The Lawrence Welk Show” to Kenan Thompson’s spot-on hosting of “Black Jeopardy,” the special highlighted the diverse talent and comedic brilliance that have defined “Saturday Night Live” for five decades.