snl 50th anniversary concert

On February 14, 2025, "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) commemorated its 50th anniversary with a spectacular event, "SNL50: The Homecoming Concert," held at the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York City. This star-studded celebration paid homage to the show's rich legacy of blending comedy and music, featuring an array of performances from renowned artists and beloved SNL alumni. A Night to Remember Hosted by former SNL cast member Jimmy Fallon, the three-hour extravaganza brought together a diverse lineup of musicians and comedians, reflecting the show's influence on popular culture over the past five decades. The concert was streamed live on Peacock, allowing fans worldwide to partake in the festivities. Musical Highlights The evening showcased a series of memorable performances that honored SNL's musical heritage: Lady Gaga teamed up with Andy Samberg for a humorous rendition of "D--- in a Box," leading into a medley of The Lonely Island's greatest hits. PEOPLE.COM Miley Cyrus delivered a heartfelt performance of her hit "Flowers," encouraging the audience to sing along. She also collaborated with Brittany Howard on a spirited cover of Queen's "Crazy Little Thing Called Love." PEOPLE.COM Post Malone joined forces with the surviving members of Nirvana for a powerful rendition of "Smells Like Teen Spirit," bridging generational gaps and paying tribute to the grunge era. VULTURE.COM Eddie Vedder performed "Corduroy" alongside The Roots, delivering a dynamic and energetic rendition that captivated the audience. REDDIT.COM Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer revived their roles as the musically inclined Culps, performing a medley of contemporary hits with their signature comedic twist. VULTURE.COM David Byrne and Robyn delivered a unique duet, blending their distinctive styles in a performance that was both avant-garde and accessible. VULTURE.COM Jack White closed the night with an electrifying performance of "Seven Nation Army," leaving the audience in awe and bringing the concert to a rousing conclusion. THEGUARDIAN.COM Comedic Interludes In true SNL fashion, the concert interspersed musical acts with comedic sketches and appearances: Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson participated in a humorous bit where they "stormed out" of the concert after Jimmy Fallon jokingly announced that no awards would be handed out, eliciting laughter from the audience. INDEPENDENT.CO.UK Maya Rudolph and Fred Armisen entertained the crowd with their celebrity impressions, showcasing the comedic talent that has been a hallmark of SNL. VULTURE.COM Andy Samberg performed a medley of The Lonely Island's comedic hits, including collaborations with surprise guests, blending music and humor seamlessly. THEGUARDIAN.COM Red Carpet Glamour The event's red carpet was a spectacle in itself, with celebrities donning stylish ensembles that paid homage to SNL's legacy: Miley Cyrus turned heads with her chic attire, embodying a blend of rock and glam that set the tone for the evening. VOGUE.COM Jim Belushi paid tribute to his late brother, John Belushi, one of SNL's original cast members, by wearing a classic suit reminiscent of the Blues Brothers' iconic look. NYPOST.COM Christine Baranski exuded elegance, her presence adding a touch of classic Hollywood glamour to the proceedings. VOGUE.COM A Legacy of Laughter and Music Since its debut on October 11, 1975, SNL has been a cornerstone of American television, launching the careers of countless comedians and musicians. The 50th-anniversary concert not only celebrated this rich history but also highlighted the show's ongoing cultural relevance. As SNL looks to the future, questions arise about the show's direction, especially with creator and executive producer Lorne Michaels reflecting on his tenure. At 80, Michaels has been instrumental in shaping the show's identity, and his eventual departure could signal significant changes for the iconic series. VULTURE.COM Continuing the Celebration The festivities didn't conclude with the concert. A live anniversary special is scheduled to air on NBC on February 16, 2025, promising more surprises and tributes. Fans can also stream "SNL50: The Homecoming Concert" on Peacock, ensuring that the celebration of this television institution reaches audiences far and wide. PEOPLE.COM In essence, the SNL 50th Anniversary Concert was a testament to the show's enduring impact on comedy and music. By bringing together a diverse array of talent, both old and new, SNL reaffirmed its place in the cultural zeitgeist, continuing to entertain and inspire generations of fans.