SNL pulled out all the stops for its 50th-anniversary special, delivering a mix of music, comedy, and nostalgic throwbacks. The night kicked off with Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon performing Homeward Bound, where Carpenter joked that not only was she not born when Simon first sang it on SNL in 1976, neither were her parents. Steve Martin followed with a monologue before the show dove into classic sketches, including Black Jeopardy with Kenan Thompson, Eddie Murphy (as Tracy Morgan), Chris Rock, and Tom Hanks. Kristen Wiig also returned as Dooneese in The Lawrence Welk Show parody with Fred Armisen and Will Ferrell.
Musical performances were a major highlight. Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard teamed up for a cover of Nothing Compares 2 U, Adam Sandler performed a tribute to SNL’s legacy, and Lil Wayne backed by Quest love and The Roots ran through hits like Lollipop and A Milli. John Mulaney led a Broadway-style tribute to New York featuring an insane lineup, including Pete Davidson, Maya Rudolph, Adam Driver, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Bad Bunny made a surprise appearance in an Espresso-themed Domingo sketch, and Tina Fey and Amy Poehler hosted a hilarious Q&A, where Quinta Brunson grilled Tim Meadows on an obscure SNL moment from 1993. The night wrapped up with Paul McCartney performing Golden Slumbers / Carry That Weight / The End—a perfect way to close out a legendary night.
Catch the full show on Peacock.