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NBC is paving the way for Saturday Night Live to debut in the U.K. and Ireland, with the premiere scheduled in 2026. A press release by the Sky Group on April 10, 2025, noted that typical to its American counterpart, SNL from London will feature a "star-studded lineup of hosts" who will take to stage and declare,
"Live from London, it’s Saturday Night!”
The news comes a few months after SNL America celebrated its 50th season anniversary on February 16, 2025. The premiere date, hosts, and lineup of SNL U.K. will be announced in the upcoming months. Sky revealed its expectations to bring together the "funniest British comedians" for the show. Notably, one of the show's original creators, Lorne Michaels, will be the executive producer in addition to his SNL U.S. role.
Saturday Night Live creators confirm launch of the U.K. and Ireland versions
From 'Live from New York' to 'Live from London', Saturday Night Live continues to expand its presence. The American skits have not been shy of bringing political themes and celebrity impersonations, and SNL U.S. recently celebrated its 50th-anniversary in February with musical performances by Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Backstreet Boys, and many more. The three-hour show brought waves of nostalgia, peak comedy moments, and poignant monologues.
Cecil Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios, confirmed the news and expressed her excitement for the new British version. She told The Guardian that for half a century,
"[The comedy sketch show has] held a unique position in TV and our collective culture." She noted this has been possible through the "masterful comedic guidance of Lorne Michaels," and added that SNL has been home to "comedy and musical talents over the years."
According to Cecil, SNL is ready to recreate the comedy magic in the United Kingdom and Ireland. SNL U.K. will go live on Sky Max and can be reportedly streamed on Now. While numerous factors can influence a show's success, Sky's representatives appear hopeful about Saturday Night Live's launch in the U.K.
Saturday Night Live has been the launchpad of numerous comedy icons including Eddy Murphy and Bill Murray. The platform has also seen sketches by and about Donald Trump and Elon Musk.
According to The Guardian, while SNL has been replicated in other countries it has received mixed reactions. In some countries, including Spain and Brazil, the show was not renewed after the first season. It is only in the upcoming months and after its release, the audience's reactions to SNL U.K. will be gauged.
Which stars would you like to see on Saturday Night Live U.K.? Tell us in the comment section below.
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