Sky to Launch UK Version of Saturday Night Live: A Bold Comedy Experiment
February 4, 2026
The article emphasizes the global significance of the project, framing it as a chance to launch new British comedy talent while leveraging SNL’s 50-year legacy.
NBC’s Lorne Michaels serves as executive producer, ensuring continuity with the original while Sky leads the UK reimagining, and James Longman is the lead producer.
The show will mirror the US format with a different guest host each week, a live audience, and familiar segments like an opening monologue, topical sketches, live music, and a UK-style Weekend Update.
The project fits within a broader framework of Broadway Video, UTAS, and NBCUniversal Formats, highlighting the global licensing and structure behind the SNL format.
Public reaction online shows enthusiasm for some cast members but skepticism about how well SNL will translate to the UK, with some predicting a mixed reception or a potential flop.
UK viewers can watch via Sky Go or NOW, with VPN suggested for international access, and some SNL UK content expected on the official SNL YouTube channel after air.
Sky specifically advises VPN use for international audiences to access Sky Go/NOW, and sketches plus Weekend Update are typically posted to SNL’s YouTube channel after broadcasts.
The piece situates SNL UK within the US tradition dating back to 1975, presenting the adaptation as a fresh, local British project for Sky.
Questions remain about whether any US SNL cast members will appear on SNL UK or in subsequent episodes, leaving room for crossovers.
Industry context notes a growing appetite in Britain for live, topical formats, positioning SNL UK as a bold experiment in British late-night comedy.
Sky will produce a UK version of Saturday Night Live for a six-episode run, with an 11-person cast including Celeste Dring, Hammed Animashaun, Larry Dean, George Fouracres, Jack Shep, Ayoade Bamgboye, Al Nash, Paddy Young, Ania Magliano, Annabel Marlow, and Emma Sidi, marking a major local adaptation of the iconic format.
There is potential for US access later via NBC or Peacock, though official details on any US airing have not been announced.
Summary based on 29 sources
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Sources

BBC News • Feb 4, 2026
Saturday Night Live UK reveals cast including Ania Magliano, Paddy Young and Emma Sidi
Mashable • Feb 4, 2026
'Saturday Night Live UK' announces 11 cast members
Evening Standard • Feb 5, 2026
Who’s in the cast for Saturday Night Live UK?