Fans of Saturday Night Live (SNL) will be experiencing somewhat of a pause as the iconic sketch comedy show takes a short break from airing new episodes this week. Instead, NBC is bringing back some beloved content with the rebroadcast of episode 4 from the show’s current 50th season, which originally featured the award-winning actor Michael Keaton as host alongside the Grammy-winning artist Billie Eilish as the musical guest.
This episode aired on October 19, 2024, and represented Keaton's fourth time gracing the Studio 8H stage. He is known for classics including Beetlejuice and Birdman, showcasing his prowess as both actor and comedian. During the episode, audiences were treated to engaging sketches, including one sequel from the famed chocolate Santa sketch initially performed by Adam Driver, as well as other notable segments featuring the Please Don’t Destroy trio.
Eilish performed tracks from her critically acclaimed 2024 album, Hit Me Hard and Soft, presenting her songs "Birds of a Feather" and "Wildflower" during the show. The excitement surrounding SNL’s 50th season has been palpable, with each episode generating plenty of memorable moments and laughter.
The hiatus will allow fans to reflect on the compelling performances delivered throughout the season. The show kicked off on September 28, 2024, with actress Jean Smart as the host, followed by other heavyweights like Nate Bargatze, Ariana Grande, and John Mulaney. Each week brought fresh talent and unique comedic styles to audiences eager for the latest skits and sketches.
The absence of new episodes means more time for fans to discuss and revisit highlights such as Keaton’s vibrant energy or Ariana Grande as she wove her musical artistry with comedic brilliance. SNL is also generating buzz for its upcoming anniversary special. The much-anticipated SNL50: The Anniversary Special is set to air on February 16, 2025, from 8-11 p.m. E.T., promising fans an engaging retrospective of the last 50 years of comedy.
The SNL fervor continues with the awaiting release of SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night, premiering on January 16, 2025, on Peacock. This all-access docuseries has been executive-produced by Morgan Neville, known for his Academy Award-winning documentaries. The series is poised to take viewers behind-the-scenes with rare footage and interviews, featuring insights from former cast members and writers reflecting on what it was like to work on the show.
The timeline for SNL has been rich and vibrant, with many familiar faces returning. This includes Colin Jost and Michael Che, the longest-serving anchors of the Weekend Update segment, along with other beloved cast members who’ve supported the show’s long-standing reputation for sharp wit and humor.
Reitman, who recently directed the film Saturday Night, has commented on how former cast members have had mixed responses to their portrayals. Notably, he recalled Chevy Chase’s blunt critique, stating, "You should be embarrassed," when he viewed the movie. This anecdote reflects Chase's well-known penchant for delivering biting remarks, which SNL alums Spade and Carvey noted as characteristically Chevy. Chase’s comments highlight the fine line creative figures tread between honesty and empathy, especially when revisiting moments of their fame.
Even as the current season takes time to pause, it does not hinder the momentum built from beloved past episodes. Many of which fans can re-watch or catch for the first time as they air during the hiatus. It’s something to look forward to as SNL fans await fresh content and enjoy the nostalgic throws of earlier seasons.
Upcoming shows and specials promise to hold fans' attention even as the program takes its much-needed break. SNL has captained a legacy of both entertainment and social commentary for the last five decades, giving audiences continual laughs as it has evolved with changing times.
For those eager to see what’s next and who will take the SNL stage as hosts after this hiatus, they can rest assured it will be worth the wait. Following this break, audiences can expect new episodes to resume Saturday nights at 11:30 p.m. E.T. on NBC, with the opportunity to stream episodes on multiple platforms, including Peacock, next day.
Expectations for the upcoming episodes are high, and fans can anticipate fresh talent bringing new energy to SNL’s storied tradition of cutting-edge comedy. Under the watchful eyes of its dedicated audience, SNL will undoubtedly continue delivering humor and joy, walking the fine line of levity through the lens of culture and society. Stay tuned as the show celebrates its illustrious history, champions familiar faces, and introduces new ones, paving the way for another exciting chapter as Saturday Night Live cruises through its milestone fiftieth season.