Overview

• The SNL50 special featured a blend of classic sketches, musical performances, and appearances by former cast members and celebrity guests, including Steve Martin, Eddie Murphy, and Meryl Streep.
• Adam Sandler performed a heartfelt song honoring late SNL alumni Chris Farley and Norm Macdonald, while Jane Curtin and Laraine Newman paid tribute to Gilda Radner on stage.
• The event included a mix of nostalgic callbacks and new material, such as John Mulaney’s satirical musical sketch on New York City’s history and Eddie Murphy’s standout impression of Tracy Morgan in 'Black Jeopardy!'.
• Critics noted a lack of balance between honoring SNL's extensive history and focusing on recent sketches, with some segments feeling underdeveloped or overly reliant on celebrity cameos.
• Musical performances by Miley Cyrus, Brittany Howard, and Paul McCartney added emotional weight, though the show struggled to match the impact of SNL's 40th anniversary celebration.