Old friends are sometimes the best (and funniest) friends. This sentiment was palpable on Wednesday night when Jimmy Fallon welcomed his fellow Saturday Night Live peers to the Studio 6B set of The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon in New York for an evening filled with skits, laughter, and cherished memories. The reunion came just days ahead of the much-anticipated SNL50: The Anniversary Special, airing in primetime on NBC and Peacock on Sunday, creating an exciting atmosphere as the alums showcased the skills they honed during their respective runs on the iconic sketch show.
During the show, they participated in a “Tonight Show Joke Off,” reminiscent of SNL’s “Weekend Update” segment, where they competed to deliver the best punchlines. This friendly competition served as a warm-up for what was to come in the anniversary celebrations. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, both beloved figures from the SNL legacy, joined Fallon for a discussion about their upcoming special and the exhilarating memories shared from their days on the show. They delighted in recalling late nights and early mornings spent in the SNL studio, along with their gratitude for being part of Lorne Michaels’ influential production.
Fallon teased fans by hinting at “crazy stuff” happening to inaugurate the anniversary weekend, slated to kick off Friday night at Radio City Music Hall, where he will host the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert, which is set to stream live on Peacock. This concert promises star-studded performances featuring artists like Arcade Fire, Lady Gaga, and more, showcasing the immense talent and vibrant spirit of those associated with SNL.
The SNL50: The Anniversary Special is set to bring together a roster of A-list guests, including members of the famous Five-Timers Club, such as Tom Hanks, Steve Martin, and Scarlett Johansson. Additionally, viewers can anticipate appearances from other stars like Miley Cyrus, Kim Kardashian, and Robert De Niro, along with nearly two dozen current and former cast members, including legends like Eddie Murphy, Will Ferrell, and Kristen Wiig. This diversity highlights the significant impact of SNL over the years and its ability to foster comedic talent.
The live three-hour telecast will emanate from the iconic Studio 8H in Rockefeller Center, kicking off at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST on NBC, with the added convenience of live streaming on Peacock, ensuring fans won’t miss a moment of the celebrations. Fans can also enjoy behind-the-scenes photos from Studio 6B, capturing the spontaneity and joy that defines the SNL experience.
This SNL reunion, featuring Amy Poehler alongside Tina Fey, is not just a trip down memory lane; it embodies the enduring legacy of camaraderie and humor that has shaped the landscape of American comedy. The excitement surrounding these events echoes the significant role SNL plays in the entertainment industry, bringing together generations of audiences and creators. As the weekend unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate the exceptional comedy, unforgettable performances, and heartfelt nostalgia that will undoubtedly resonate long after the lights go down.
