Live from the bustling streets of New York City, it’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for—the 50th anniversary celebration of “Saturday Night Live”! After a brief three-week hiatus, the beloved comedy show is back with a bang, promising a weekend jam-packed with nostalgia, star-studded performances, and iconic moments that are sure to leave viewers in stitches.
Remembering the Roots: A Look Back at the First Episode
As we gear up for the grand anniversary special, tonight’s festivities kick off with a trip down memory lane as NBC proudly presents a re-airing of the very first episode of “Saturday Night Live.” Originally broadcast on October 11, 1975, this historic event featured legendary comedian George Carlin as the host, along with musical guests Billy Preston and Janis Ian.
Set your alarms for February 15th at 11:30 p.m. EST as the iconic premiere episode graces our screens once again, courtesy of NBC and Peacock. What better way to honor 50 years of laughter than by revisiting the show’s humble beginnings?
A Star-Studded Affair: The 50th Anniversary Special
The main event arrives on Sunday, February 16th at 8 p.m. EST, as “SNL’s” 50th anniversary special takes center stage. Join “SNL” alum Leslie Jones, “Sunday TODAY” host Willie Geist, and comedian Matt Rogers for an exclusive look behind the scenes as they chat with some of the program’s biggest stars before the show.
But the real magic begins at 7 p.m. EST with “SNL50: The Red Carpet,” setting the stage for an unforgettable night of celebration and laughter. Tune in to NBC and Peacock for a front-row seat to all the action.
Music, Laughter, and Legacy: The Homecoming Concert
To kick off the weekend festivities in style, “The Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon will grace Radio City Music Hall with “SNL50: The Homecoming Concert.” Produced by none other than SNL creator Lorne Michaels and music maven Mark Ronson, this star-studded musical extravaganza promises to honor the show’s rich musical legacy.
Featuring performances by a lineup of musical legends such as Arcade Fire, Lady Gaga, Dave Grohl, and Snoop Dogg, the three-hour concert is a celebration not to be missed. Mark your calendars for Friday, February 14th at 8 p.m. EST, exclusively on Peacock.
As the weekend unfolds, the celebration doesn’t end there. In addition to the live programming, Peacock offers a treasure trove of documentaries that delve into the rich history and legacy of “Saturday Night Live.” From “SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night” to “Ladies and Gentleman… 50 Years of SNL Music,” fans can immerse themselves in the captivating world of SNL like never before.
So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite spot on the couch, and get ready to laugh, dance, and celebrate 50 years of late-night comedy at its finest. The show must go on, and “Saturday Night Live” is just getting started.
