Over the span of 50 years, numerous concepts can become outdated or irrelevant. This phenomenon has certainly been evident in various sketches from Saturday Night Live. During the recent 50th Anniversary Special, actor Tom Hanks led a segment reminiscing about some sketches that have not aged well. However, it?s important to note that the show hasn?t entirely moved away from its controversial references. Throughout the special, and even beyond the poignant “In Memoriam” segment, there were multiple mentions of polarizing figures within the entertainment industry, demonstrating how SNL continues to blend humor with the complex realities of celebrity culture and public perception.
During the engaging question-and-answer segment of the special, hosted by the dynamic duo Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, controversial rapper Ye, previously known as Kanye West, was brought up. West, who has made seven memorable appearances as a musical guest on the iconic show, was indirectly referenced during Adam Sandler‘s musical performance. Sandler’s lyrics hinted at a musician recently exposed for antisemitic remarks, echoing West’s inflammatory comments made during a lengthy tirade on X (formerly Twitter) where he shockingly praised Adolf Hitler. This highlights how SNL navigates the fine line between comedy and commentary amid evolving societal standards.
Exploring the Highlights and Low Points of ‘SNL’ at 50
Among the notable figures referenced was actor Kevin Spacey, who has hosted SNL on two occasions. Spacey has faced serious allegations of sexual misconduct, which resulted in his removal from the popular Netflix series House of Cards in 2017. Additionally, the special made multiple mentions of Sean “P. Diddy” Combs, who is currently embroiled in legal issues related to sex trafficking and racketeering charges. These references were prominent during the “Weekend Update” segment, hosted by Colin Jost and Michael Che, and included a clip from a memorable skit featuring Combs in the “In Memoriam” section. Such moments illustrate the show?s ongoing relationship with controversial figures and its impact on public discourse.
The much-anticipated Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special was broadcast on both NBC and Peacock, offering viewers a chance to relive iconic moments and reflect on the show’s legacy. The “In Memoriam” segment, which poignantly honors those lost in the entertainment industry, can be viewed above. For the latest updates and insights into the world of SNL, stay tuned to Collider as we cover all things related to this landmark anniversary.
Discover More Exciting Highlights from SNL’s 50th Anniversary
Saturday Night Live
- Release Date
-
October 11, 1975
- Network
-
NBC
- Showrunner
-
Lorne Michaels
- Directors
-
Dave Wilson, Don Roy King, Liz Patrick, Andy Warhol, Linda Lee Cadwell, Matthew Meshekoff, Paul Miller, Robert Altman, Robert Smigel
- Writers
-
Will Forte, Bill Hader, Tina Fey, Kristen Wiig, Chris Parnell, Asa Taccone, John Lutz, Tom Schiller, Simon Rich, Michael Patrick O’Brien, Nicki Minaj, Herbert Sargent, Matt Piedmont, John Solomon, Chris Kelly, Alan Zweibel, Kent Sublette, Ari Katcher, Marika Sawyer, Sarah Schneider, Scott Jung, Justin Franks, Jerrod Bettis, Rhiannon Bryan
-
Adam McKay
Self / Various
-
Adam Sandler
Self (archive footage)
-
Adam Sandler
Self (archive footage)
-
Al Roker
Self / Margaret Jo McCullin / Various
