Unforgettable Moments from the SNL 50th Anniversary: Highlights, Sketches, and Celebrity Cameos Revealed
The SNL 50th Anniversary special was a monumental event that celebrated the incredible journey of Saturday Night Live (SNL). Since its debut on October 11, 1975, SNL has become a beloved part of American television, shaping comedy, pop culture, and even the political landscape. In February 2025, the show marked a major milestone by celebrating its 50th year. From star-studded cameos to unforgettable musical performances, the SNL 50th Anniversary Special was a night to remember.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the highlights of this memorable evening, including iconic sketches, surprising celebrity appearances, and the musical guests that made it all the more special. So, let’s go back in time and take a look at what made the SNL 50th Anniversary celebration so unforgettable!
SNL 50th Anniversary Special: A Star-Studded Event
The SNL 50th Anniversary Special was an incredible reunion of the best and brightest talents from the past five decades. Hosted by some of the show’s most famous alumni, the night was filled with laughter, nostalgia, and touching moments that reminded us of why Saturday Night Live has stood the test of time.
Who Hosted the SNL 50th Anniversary?
The event was filled with beloved hosts and cast members. Some of the most memorable figures from the SNL 50th Anniversary included Steve Martin, Bill Hader, and Tina Fey. Their appearances were emotional for fans, as these hosts have become synonymous with the show’s legacy. Amy Poehler and Maya Rudolph, who both had standout careers on SNL, also returned to share in the celebration. The night was packed with laughter, touching moments, and even a few surprises.
Unforgettable Celebrity Cameos
The SNL 50th Anniversary was more than just a trip down memory lane. It also featured unexpected celebrity appearances. For example, Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks, and Ryan Reynolds joined in on the fun. Not to be outdone, Paul McCartney performed a medley of classic Beatles hits, leaving the audience in awe.
SNL fans were also treated to cameos from Chris Kattan, Dan Aykroyd, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. These stars have been a part of SNL’s long history and their return brought back fond memories for fans. George Harrison and Keith Richards also made a mark with their musical appearances, adding more star power to this unforgettable night.
Classic SNL Sketches Revisited
One of the highlights of any anniversary special is the return of classic sketches that made the show legendary. The SNL 50th Anniversary Special was no exception. Several famous sketches returned, much to the delight of fans.
“The Lawrence Welk Show” Revisited
One of the most beloved sketches in SNL history, “The Lawrence Welk Show,” made a hilarious return with Kristen Wiig as the quirky Dooneese. Joining her were Ana Gasteyer, Kim Kardashian, and Scarlett Johansson, who took on the roles of the Maharelle sisters. This sketch had fans laughing out loud, just as it did during its original run. Will Ferrell also made an appearance as Robert Goulet, adding a special touch to this reunion.
“Black Jeopardy” Returns
Another memorable sketch was the return of “Black Jeopardy”, featuring Kenan Thompson as the host, Darnell Hayes. The contestants included Leslie Jones, Tracy Morgan, and Eddie Murphy impersonating the famous comedian Morgan. The sketch also featured Tom Hanks in a surprise appearance, reprising his role as a MAGA-supporter named Doug. The mix of humor and satire was a perfect representation of what makes SNL so special.
“Bronx Beat” with Amy Poehler and Maya Rudolph
Fans were also treated to the return of Amy Poehler and Maya Rudolph as Betty and Jodi from “Bronx Beat.” The duo’s sarcastic and hilarious commentary on everyday life was as entertaining as ever. In this sketch, Miles Teller and Mike Myers made guest appearances, with Myers revisiting his beloved “Coffee Talk” character, Linda Richman.
Memorable Musical Performances at the SNL 50th Anniversary
No SNL 50th Anniversary special would be complete without memorable musical performances. The night saw Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard perform “Nothing Compares 2 U” in tribute to Sinéad O’Connor, a performance that left the audience moved. The music set the tone for the celebration, blending SNL’s past with its ongoing influence in the world of entertainment.
The Return of Paul Simon
One of the most iconic musical moments of the evening was the performance by Paul Simon. He opened the show by singing “Homeward Bound,” a song that holds a special place in the hearts of SNL fans. Sabrina Carpenter joined him for a stunning duet, adding a modern twist to a classic performance.
Lil Wayne and The Roots
Lil Wayne and The Roots provided an energetic performance with a medley of his greatest hits, including “Uproar” and “A Milli.” Their performance was a reminder of how SNL has embraced diverse musical talent over the years, welcoming artists from all genres to the stage.
How to Watch the SNL 50th Anniversary Special
If you missed the SNL 50th Anniversary special, don’t worry—you can still catch it! The special is available for streaming on Peacock, NBC’s streaming service. You can watch the full SNL 50th Anniversary Special at your convenience, reliving all the iconic moments, celebrity cameos, and hilarious sketches.
If you’re wondering where to watch SNL 50, you can access the special on-demand anytime you want. It’s the perfect way to relive the magic of 50 years of SNL in the comfort of your own home.
Why the SNL 50th Anniversary Means So Much
The SNL 50th Anniversary wasn’t just about celebrating a TV show—it was about celebrating a cultural institution. For 50 years, SNL has brought humor, satire, and unforgettable moments into homes across the USA. From the early days with John Belushi and Gilda Radner to the new era with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, SNL has always been ahead of its time.
The SNL 50th Anniversary Special was a reminder of the show’s influence on comedy, music, and politics. It’s not just a late-night sketch show—it’s a platform that has shaped how we view the world. It brings together people from all walks of life to laugh, learn, and think critically about the issues of the day.
Final Thoughts on the SNL 50th Anniversary
As we reflect on the SNL 50th Anniversary, it’s clear that the show’s legacy is something to be proud of. From iconic sketches to unforgettable musical performances, the SNL 50th Anniversary was a celebration of everything that makes Saturday Night Live special. It’s a show that continues to make us laugh, think, and feel—and after 50 years, it shows no signs of slowing down.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering SNL, the SNL 50th Anniversary special is a must-watch. It’s a tribute to an American institution that has shaped comedy for generations.
