SNL is the longest-running late-night sketch comedy show in Americaand has now been “live from New York” for 50 years. To put that into context, it’s older than EastEnders by about 10 years. Yet, while it’s produced many iconic sketches and unearthed countless comedic talents, we’ve failed to see it replicated successfully here in the UK.
We’re not exactly strangers to sketch comedy across the pond (See: The Two Ronnies, Fast Show, The Catherine Tate Showso on and so on), but we’ve rarely seen the same live, fast-paced format that made SNL a cultural phenomenon succeed in the UK. But that could change, because the UK is getting its own Saturday Night Live very soon.
The show’s creator, Lorne Michaels, as executive producer, has teamed up with Sky to produce a UK version right here in London. Saturday Night Live UK will be produced by Lorne’s Broadway Video and Universal Television Alternative Studio’s U.K. production team. So what do we know so far?
Who will star in Saturday Night Live UK?
SNL has a knack for finding the next big things in comedy. We’re talking Adam Sandler, Eddie Murphy, Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Will Ferrell, Amy Poehler, Mike Myers, Pete Davidson, Andy Samberg, and many, many more. SNL UK will hope to replicate this formula and feature “the funniest British comedians around”, alongside iconic hosts and musical guests.
When and where will it be released?
All we know so far is that Saturday Night Live UK will air on Sky Max and the streaming service NOW at some point in 2026. But, with further details about the show’s UK debut – including cast, hosts, musical guests and premiere date – expected to be announced in the coming monthswe shouldn’t have to wait too long to learn more.
Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios and Chief Content Officer, Sky, commented: “The show has discovered and nurtured countless comedy and musical talents over the years and we are thrilled to be partnering with Lorne and the SNL team to bring an all-British version of the show to UK audiences next year – all live from London on Saturday night!”
