Sky to Launch UK Version of Saturday Night Live: A Bold Comedy Experiment

February 4, 2026
Sky to Launch UK Version of Saturday Night Live: A Bold Comedy Experiment
  • 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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