Thursday, 10 April 2025

Saturday Night Live Heads to London for All-New UK Edition in 2026

By Jon Donnis

The iconic late-night comedy institution Saturday Night Live is crossing the Atlantic for the first time in its five-decade history, with Saturday Night Live UK set to debut on Sky Max and streaming service NOW in 2026.

Announced by Sky, the new series will bring the unmistakable energy and satire of the long-running NBC show to audiences in the UK and Ireland. Broadcasting live from London, the UK edition promises a star-studded line-up of hosts and musical guests, along with a core cast of top British comedic talent, all declaring the legendary line: "Live from London, it's Saturday Night!"

The ONLY question is, will it keep to its far-left activist stylings that has caused the SNL ratings in the US to plummet? Or will it try to actually be funny and have comedy that is down the middle? Only time will tell, especially as The Last Leg has the far-left activist stylings truly nailed. Will Sky dare to be different?

The series will be executive produced by SNL creator Lorne Michaels, who will continue to helm the original US series alongside the UK adaptation. Production will be handled by Broadway Video and Universal Television Alternative Studio's UK production team, ensuring the same fast-paced format and live spontaneity that has defined the original.

"SNL has held a unique position in TV and in our collective culture," said Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios and Chief Content Officer at Sky. "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."

With a legacy that includes launching the careers of legendary comedians such as Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey and Will Ferrell, Saturday Night Live has become one of television's most decorated programmes. It holds the record for the most Emmy® Awards in history, has won four Peabody Awards, and was inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame.

Saturday Night Live UK is set to mirror the original's blend of topical sketches, satire, and musical performances, creating a new platform for British comedy voices while maintaining the global appeal of the SNL brand.

Further announcements regarding the UK cast, celebrity hosts, musical acts, and the official premiere date are expected in the coming months.

Saturday Night Live UK will air on Sky Max and stream on NOW in 2026.

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