The iconic sketch show launches with a star-studded cast and British humor.
Category: Arts & Culture
Live from London, it’s the inaugural episode of Saturday Night Live UK, which premiered on March 21, 2026. This new version of the iconic American sketch comedy show aims to bring a distinctly British flavor to the beloved franchise. The show kicked off with former SNL head writer and Weekend Update anchor Tina Fey at the helm, joined by musical guest Wet Leg, marking a fresh chapter for the series.
According to NBCUniversal Entertainment chief business officer Liz Jenkins, bringing Saturday Night Live to the UK is a natural extension of its legacy. “SNL is one of the most influential comedy brands globally, and bringing the UK edition to Peacock is a natural extension of that legacy,” Jenkins said.
The first episode aired on Sky One at 10 p.m. GMT (2 p.m. ET) and is available for streaming on NOW TV. For US viewers, episodes will be accessible on Peacock starting March 22, the day after each episode airs.
Fey's involvement is particularly notable, having starred alongside the new cast members, which include rising stars Hammed Animashaun, Ayoade Bamgboye, Larry Dean, Celeste Dring, George Fouracres, Ania Magliano, Annabel Marlow, Al Nash, Jack Shep, Emma Sidi, and Paddy Young. The show promises to feature guest hosts and live musical acts each week, mirroring the successful format of its American counterpart.
Riz Ahmed, nominated for an Academy Award for his performance on Sound of Metal, will host one of the upcoming episodes. Ahmed expressed his excitement about the new show, saying, “I was hoping you could tell me [what to expect]. Cause SNL is new to the UK, right? It's such an amazing institution here.” He added, “You guys stole The Office from us, so we’re going to take SNL from you.”
During the premiere, the cold open featured a sketch with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, played by George Fouracres, and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, portrayed by Hammed Animashaun. They humorously navigated the challenges of withdrawing support from Trump, alluding to the “special relationship” between the UK and the US, with a Gen Z adviser (Jack Shep) adding a contemporary twist to the dialogue.
The sketch referenced various episodes of Friends, humorously blending political satire with pop culture. This mix of humor is expected to resonate with audiences who appreciate both British wit and the iconic SNL format.
Sky Studios CEO Cecile Frot-Coutaz expressed enthusiasm about the new show, stating, “For over 50 years, Saturday Night Live has held a unique position on TV and our collective culture, and we are thrilled to be partnering with Lorne Michaels to bring an all-British version of the show to UK audiences.” This partnership aims to introduce new voices and comedic styles to a global audience.
The six-episode series will continue to air weekly, with each episode featuring a new guest host. Upcoming hosts include Jamie Dornan and Riz Ahmed, who are set to appear on March 28 and April 4, respectively. This lineup promises to keep audiences engaged with a mix of established stars and fresh talent.
Fans of the original SNL will find familiar elements, including the live format and the unpredictability that has made the franchise a cultural staple. The original US version of SNL continues its run, with the next episode set to air on April 4, 2026, featuring Jack Black.
Viewers eager to catch the premiere of SNL UK can do so on Peacock, which will make episodes available for next-day streaming. This move is part of a broader strategy to connect the two versions of the show, allowing fans across the pond to enjoy the latest comedic offerings.
With its unique blend of British humor and the classic SNL format, Saturday Night Live UK aims to carve out its own identity within the franchise. The show's creators hope to honor the legacy of its American counterpart, all the whilst injecting fresh perspectives and local humor.
Panelists from the Saturday Night Network have begun recapping episodes, providing commentary on the show's evolution and its reception among audiences. Jon Schneider, Frankie Durkin, and Bill Kenney, all seasoned SNL enthusiasts, are set to discuss the impact of the new series weekly.
Fans can expect lively discussions and insights into the episodes' best moments, deepening the engagement with both the new show and its historical roots. The excitement surrounding the launch of SNL UK reflects a growing interest not just for comedy, but for how cultural narratives are shared and reshaped across borders.
With a promising start, Saturday Night Live UK is poised to become a noteworthy addition to the comedy scene, inviting viewers to laugh and engage with humor that resonates on both sides of the Atlantic.