Saturday Night Live Celebrates 50 Seasons with Star-Studded Special

The iconic sketch comedy show kicks off its milestone season on September 28, leading to a three-hour live primetime special in February.

SNL premiered on October 11, 1975, with George Carlin as host and musical guests Billy Preston and Janis Ian.
The show introduced the 'Not Ready for Prime Time Players,' including John Belushi, Gilda Radner, Chevy Chase, Laraine Newman, Dan Aykroyd, Jane Curtin, and Garrett Morris.
John Belushi left SNL in 1979 and died in 1982 at age 33 due to a drug overdose.
Gilda Radner, known for her iconic characters, died in 1989 after a battle with ovarian cancer.
The 50th season will feature Jean Smart hosting the premiere, with Jelly Roll as the musical guest, and will culminate in a special primetime event on February 16.