The iconic comedy show launches its first British edition, promising a unique twist on the classic format
Category: Arts & Culture
Live from London, it’s the premiere of Saturday Night Live UK! On March 21, 2026, the iconic American sketch comedy franchise made its much-anticipated debut across the pond, introducing a fresh take on a beloved format that has shaped late-night television for decades.
The inaugural episode was hosted by former SNL head writer and Weekend Update anchor Tina Fey, who brought her signature humor to the stage alongside musical guest Wet Leg. Fey, who starred alongside the cast of the new version of the show, participated actively, even appearing with them to promote the launch through a cheeky promo that showcased her comedic flair.
“Saturday Night Live is one of the most influential comedy brands globally, and bringing the UK edition to Peacock is a natural extension of that legacy,” said Liz Jenkins, NBCUniversal Entertainment chief business officer, emphasizing the show's significance. The UK version aims to introduce bold new British voices to a global audience, maintaining the essence of its American predecessor.
The cast for Saturday Night Live UK features a dynamic group of 11 rising stars from the British comedy scene, including Hammed Animashaun, Ayoade Bamgboye, Larry Dean, Celeste Dring, George Fouracres, Ania Magliano, Annabel Marlow, Al Nash, Jack Shep, Emma Sidi, and Paddy Young. Each week, a new celebrity guest host will take the reins, adding their unique touch to the show's established format.
Riz Ahmed, who received an Academy Award nomination for his performance in Sound of Metal, is set to host one of the upcoming episodes. He expressed his excitement about the new version, 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 humorously remarked on the cultural exchange, referencing how the UK’s The Office was adapted for American audiences: “You guys stole ‘The Office' from us, so we’re going to take ‘SNL’ from you.”
The first episode featured a cold open that addressed current political humor, a hallmark of the original SNL. The sketch involved Prime Minister Keir Starmer, played by George Fouracres, and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, portrayed by Hammed Animashaun, discussing how to withdraw support from Donald Trump without jeopardizing the UK’s “special relationship” with the United States. The inclusion of a Gen Z adviser, played by Jack Shep, added a contemporary twist, with the sketch humorously referencing episodes of Friends.
“The trick? Voice memo,” the sketch suggested, highlighting the absurdity of political communication today. The episode captured the high-wire, anything-can-happen energy that SNL is known for, now reimagined through a distinctly British lens.
Sky, the network airing the show, has committed to a six-episode series that will be broadcast live each week. Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, 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 and the SNL team to bring an all-British version of the show to UK audiences.”
The show is set to air on Sky One and stream on NOW TV, with episodes available for U.S. audiences on Peacock starting March 22. Viewers can expect to see new episodes the day after they air live, continuing the tradition of timely political satire that has made SNL a staple of American television.
Following Fey’s episode, Jamie Dornan and Riz Ahmed are scheduled to host episodes on March 28 and April 4, respectively, promising a diverse lineup of talent and comedic perspectives. The original SNL will also return to its regular schedule on April 4, 2026, with Jack Black hosting.
Fans of the show can catch recaps and discussions on the Saturday Night Network, which will stream live weekly after each episode. Panelists Jon Schneider, Frankie Durkin, and Bill Kenney, all seasoned SNL aficionados, will provide insights and commentary on the latest sketches, adding another layer of engagement for viewers.
With its blend of British humor and the iconic SNL format, Saturday Night Live UK is poised to carve out its own niche within the comedy world. The show honors the legacy of its American counterpart and embraces the unique comedic sensibilities of British culture, making it a must-watch for fans of both versions.
So, whether you’re tuning into Sky One or waiting for the next-day streaming on Peacock, Saturday Night Live UK promises to deliver the laughs, the satire, and the unexpected moments that have defined the SNL experience for generations. Will it resonate with audiences? Only time will tell, but the excitement surrounding its launch suggests that it’s off to a promising start!
Stay tuned for more updates and watch how this new iteration evolves, bringing fresh perspectives to the iconic format we all know and love.