For half a century, Saturday Night Live (SNL) has remained a cornerstone of American comedy, blending satire, sketches, and unforgettable musical performances. To commemorate its milestone 50th anniversary, NBC organized an extravagant celebration titled “SNL50: The Homecoming Concert” on February 14, 2025, at the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Hosted by Jimmy Fallon, the event was a nostalgic journey through SNL’s rich history, featuring electrifying musical performances, surprise appearances, and tributes to legendary cast members.
A Historic Night of Music and Comedy
The SNL 50th anniversary concert brought together some of the biggest names in entertainment, blending music with the show’s signature comedic elements. With a mix of classic SNL characters, beloved alumni, and top-tier musicians, the event was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for both longtime fans and new audiences alike.
Jimmy Fallon’s Grand Opening
The night kicked off with Jimmy Fallon delivering a humorous monologue reflecting on SNL’s 50-year legacy. He then paid tribute to one of the show’s most iconic musical acts—The Blues Brothers—by performing a high-energy rendition of their signature song, backed by The Roots. Fallon’s performance set the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Lady Gaga Joins The Lonely Island
One of the most talked-about moments of the night came when Lady Gaga joined forces with Andy Samberg and his comedic musical group The Lonely Island. The trio performed a hilarious medley of their SNL digital short classics, including “Dick in a Box” and “I Just Had Sex.” Gaga’s participation added an extra layer of star power, as she seamlessly blended humor with her powerhouse vocals.
Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer’s Culp Family Returns
A special throwback moment saw Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer reprise their roles as Marty Culp and Bobbi Mohan-Culp, the hilariously offbeat music teachers. This time, they gave their signature quirky rendition of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us”, much to the delight of the audience.
A Surprise Collaboration: Post Malone and Nirvana
In one of the most unexpected performances of the night, Post Malone took the stage alongside surviving members of Nirvana for a powerful rendition of “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” This tribute to the legendary band, which had previously performed on SNL, was an emotional highlight, leaving fans awestruck.
Miley Cyrus’ Show-Stopping Performance
Adding to the list of musical highlights, Miley Cyrus took the stage to perform her smash hit “Flowers.” She engaged the crowd, encouraging a singalong and even giving a special shout-out to longtime SNL fan Paul Rudd, who was seen enjoying the performance from the front row.
Lauryn Hill Reunites with Wyclef Jean
Bringing a touch of nostalgia, Ms. Lauryn Hill reunited with Wyclef Jean for an incredible set, featuring classics like “Killing Me Softly With His Song.” The duo’s reunion sent waves of excitement through the audience, reminding everyone of SNL’s deep connection with musical history.
David Byrne and Robyn’s Unforgettable Duet
Another standout moment was the duet between David Byrne and Robyn, who performed an electrifying rendition of “Dancing On My Own.” The unexpected pairing resulted in an energetic and artistic performance that had the audience on their feet.
Jack White Closes the Night with a Bang
As the grand finale, Jack White delivered a powerhouse performance of his anthem “Seven Nation Army.” His electrifying guitar riffs and stage presence were the perfect way to conclude a night of incredible entertainment.
Celebrity Sightings and Special Appearances
Beyond the musical performances, the concert saw appearances from SNL alumni and Hollywood stars, including Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, Meryl Streep, Martin Short, Maya Rudolph, Fred Armisen, and Bill Murray. Bill Murray, in particular, delighted fans by bringing back his iconic Nick the Lounge Singer character for a nostalgic performance.
The event also featured tribute segments honoring legendary cast members, including the late John Belushi, Gilda Radner, and Phil Hartman, reminding audiences of SNL’s enduring legacy.
Where to Watch
For those who missed the live event, “SNL50: The Homecoming Concert” is available for streaming on Peacock. Additionally, the celebrations will continue with “SNL50: The Anniversary Special,” airing live from Studio 8H on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.
A Celebration of Comedy and Music
The SNL 50th anniversary concert was more than just a night of performances—it was a tribute to five decades of comedic brilliance and cultural impact. From musical legends to beloved SNL characters, the event captured the essence of the show’s history, proving once again why Saturday Night Live remains an integral part of American pop culture.
As SNL moves into its next chapter, this unforgettable night will be remembered as a shining example of the show’s ability to bring comedy, music, and nostalgia together in perfect harmony.
