Kenan Thompson attending ‘SNL50: The Anniversary Special’, Feb. 16, 2025, NY. AP Photo
NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” SNL 50th anniversary special has become the network’s most-watched prime-time entertainment telecast in five years. The star-studded event, which aired Sunday night, attracted nearly 15 million viewers across television and streaming platforms.
The 3.5-hour celebration was filled with comedy sketches, musical performances, and surprise appearances. According to the network, it delivered NBC’s biggest audience for a nighttime entertainment program since the 2020 Golden Globes. In recent years, only the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has drawn a larger audience.
The show’s opening featured Paul Simon, Sabrina Carpenter, and Steve Martin, who set the tone with an engaging monologue. Throughout the night, the audience witnessed an array of cameos, including appearances by Aubrey Plaza, Meryl Streep, and Jack Nicholson. Several former “SNL” cast members also returned to honor the legacy of the sketch comedy show, which debuted in October 1975.
The special aired live on NBC and was also available to stream on Peacock. It concluded with a memorable musical performance by Paul McCartney, bringing together stars on the iconic “SNL” stage for a grand finale.
The milestone event not only celebrated half a century of groundbreaking comedy, but also reaffirmed the show’s cultural significance.
