The best moments from ‘SNL’s’ 50th anniversary special

Saturday Night Live (SNL), the iconic late-night show that has become a cornerstone of American television, celebrated its monumental 50th anniversary this year. The SNL 50th Anniversary Special, broadcast on primetime, was a star-studded, nostalgia-filled evening that paid tribute to the legendary sketch comedy show’s enduring legacy. With an eclectic mix of musical performances, comedy sketches, and appearances from former cast members, the special brought together five decades of unforgettable moments. Fans, both old and new, were treated to a celebration of the best of SNL—moments that have shaped pop culture and entertainment for half a century.

While the entire special was a rollercoaster of laughter and heartfelt memories, certain moments stood out as highlights. From iconic cast reunions to surprise performances and sketches, the 50th-anniversary celebration provided a comprehensive look back at what has made SNL such a lasting influence. Here’s a rundown of some of the best moments from the landmark anniversary special.

1. The Return of Legendary Cast Members

One of the most anticipated segments of the SNL 50th Anniversary Special was the reunion of iconic cast members from the show’s history. The special featured appearances by some of the original cast members, such as Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi’s spirit, and Chevy Chase, whose wild antics in the early years helped solidify SNL’s status as a cultural touchstone.

Notably, the reunion sketch featuring the original Weekend Update anchors—Chevy Chase, Jane Curtin, and Garrett Morris—was a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The trio reprised their role as anchors, providing witty banter about the show’s history and its evolution over the years. Their chemistry was still evident, and it was a reminder of how SNL's early days were full of groundbreaking moments in comedy.

Fans of more recent casts were also treated to a reunion featuring beloved players like Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler. The chemistry between these cast members was electric, as they reunited in a series of sketches that showcased their comedy prowess. Ferrell’s portrayal of President George W. Bush and Fey’s iconic Sarah Palin impression still elicited hearty laughs, showing that the stars of SNL continue to hold a special place in the hearts of fans.

2. Bill Murray’s Heartfelt Tribute to Gilda Radner

The 50th Anniversary Special wouldn’t have been complete without a tribute to Gilda Radner, one of SNL’s original and most beloved cast members. Bill Murray, a close friend of Radner’s, delivered a touching tribute to the late comedian, recalling their time together on the show. Murray shared personal stories about Radner’s infectious humor, her impeccable talent, and the indelible mark she left on the show.

The tribute segment, filled with warm memories, included clips from Radner’s most memorable moments on SNL. Her sketches, such as "Roseanne Roseannadanna" and "Emily Litella," continue to resonate with fans to this day. The emotional tribute highlighted not only Radner’s contribution to the success of the show but also her lasting influence on generations of comedians who followed in her footsteps.

Murray’s heartfelt words, combined with the clips of Radner’s funniest moments, brought a sense of reverence and nostalgia to the celebration, reminding everyone why she remains one of the most cherished figures in the show’s history.

3. A Musical Spectacle: Paul McCartney and More

The 50th Anniversary Special was not just a celebration of comedy—it also highlighted the incredible musical talent that has graced the SNL stage over the years. The show’s musical history is as rich and varied as its comedy, and the anniversary special was the perfect occasion to honor the legendary performances that have become part of the show’s cultural fabric.

Paul McCartney’s performance was one of the standout musical moments of the night. The former Beatle took the stage to perform some of his most iconic songs, including "Live and Let Die" and "Maybe I’m Amazed." McCartney’s legendary status was amplified by his electric performance, and fans couldn’t help but feel the emotional weight of the moment. As one of the many musical legends who have performed on SNL, McCartney’s presence added to the evening’s sense of history.

But McCartney wasn’t the only musical giant to take the stage. Other major stars like Bruce Springsteen, Billie Eilish, and Stevie Nicks contributed to the musical celebration, performing some of their greatest hits and paying tribute to the show’s legacy. These performances were a reminder of how SNL has long been a platform for musical artists to showcase their talents to a wide audience.

4. The Return of Classic Sketches

As expected, the 50th Anniversary Special revisited some of the most iconic sketches that have become part of the SNL lexicon. Fans were treated to reboots of beloved sketches, some of which had not been seen in years.

One of the most memorable moments came when Alec Baldwin reprised his role as Donald Trump, joining other former and current cast members in a hilarious sketch that poked fun at the former president’s time in office. Baldwin’s spot-on impersonation, paired with a comedic performance by Kate McKinnon as Hillary Clinton, was a fan-favorite. The sketch was a reminder of how SNL has always been at the forefront of political satire.

Another classic sketch that made its return was The Blues Brothers, starring Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi’s brother Jim Belushi. The musical duo’s performance was a hit with fans, who reveled in the high-energy, retro vibe of their skit. It was a great nod to the show’s roots in musical comedy and the significant impact that SNL’s sketch format has had on the industry.

5. Kenan Thompson’s Emotional Moment

Kenan Thompson, one of the longest-serving cast members in SNL history, had a particularly emotional moment during the anniversary special. The beloved comedian and actor has been with the show for over two decades, making him one of the most recognizable and enduring faces of the series.

Thompson’s speech was a heartfelt acknowledgment of the show’s influence on his career and the friendships he’s built over the years. His words struck a chord with fans, who have watched him grow and evolve as an entertainer since his early days on the show. The tribute to Thompson was a reminder of how SNL has fostered talent and shaped the careers of some of the biggest names in comedy.

6. A Look Back at SNL’s Influence on Pop Culture

Throughout the anniversary special, the show took a moment to reflect on its massive impact on pop culture over the years. From breaking taboos with edgy political satire to propelling musical trends, SNL has played an integral role in shaping American television and entertainment.

Various montages featured clips from memorable political sketches, musical performances, and cultural moments that defined entire eras. Highlights included the introduction of characters like The Coneheads, Wayne’s World, and The Spartan Cheerleaders, all of which became part of the cultural lexicon. These sketches not only shaped the course of SNL but also influenced comedy and television in ways that extend far beyond the show itself.

7. The Final Toast: Lorne Michaels Reflects on the Legacy

As the special drew to a close, Lorne Michaels, the mastermind behind SNL’s success, took a moment to reflect on the show’s 50-year journey. In a heartfelt speech, Michaels spoke about the importance of SNL in American television and its continued relevance in shaping culture.

His words were a fitting conclusion to a special that had highlighted the best moments from the show’s long and storied history. Michaels’ reflections were filled with gratitude, humor, and pride for the extraordinary cast and crew that have made SNL a beloved institution. It was clear that SNL’s legacy is one of innovation, creativity, and, above all, laughter.

Conclusion

The SNL 50th Anniversary Special was a celebration of everything that has made Saturday Night Live an enduring force in television. From iconic cast reunions to legendary musical performances, the special showcased the best moments that have defined the show for five decades. As fans watched the anniversary special unfold, they were reminded not only of the cultural impact SNL has had but also of the joy, humor, and unifying power it continues to bring to audiences around the world. Here’s to the next 50 years of SNL’s comedy, creativity, and influence in entertainment.