Saturday Night Live (SNL), airing on NBC and streaming on Peacock, is a long-running American late-night live sketch comedy show. Created by Lorne Michaels, the show premiered in 1975. Known for its comedic sketches parodying current American culture and politics, SNL features a diverse cast and is hosted by a different celebrity guest each week. The show typically starts with a cold open, often politically themed, and concludes with the iconic phrase "Live from New York, it's Saturday Night!"
1965: "The Best of Carson" Reruns Begin
Starting in 1965, NBC affiliates began broadcasting reruns of "The Best of Carson," showcasing highlights from Johnny Carson's "The Tonight Show."
1973: Notoriety of National Lampoon Productions
National Lampoon comedy productions, such as "Lemmings" and "The National Lampoon Radio Hour," gained significant notoriety in 1973 and 1974.
1974: Carson Requests Weekend Show Removal
In 1974, Johnny Carson expressed his wish to have the weekend reruns of "The Tonight Show" pulled to allow for more time off.
1974: Development of SNL Begins
In 1974, NBC tasked Dick Ebersol with creating a show for Saturday nights, leading to the development of a variety show concept with Lorne Michaels.
1974: NBC Approaches Matty Simmons
NBC approached National Lampoon publisher Matty Simmons regarding their planned Saturday night comedy show but were turned down, ultimately leading to the creation of Saturday Night Live.
October 11, 1975: Premiere of "NBC's Saturday Night"
On October 11, 1975, the first episode of "NBC's Saturday Night," hosted by George Carlin, aired, marking the beginning of the iconic sketch comedy show.
October 1975: George Carlin Hosts SNL Premiere
On October 11, 1975, comedian George Carlin hosted the inaugural episode of Saturday Night Live.
1975: End of "The Best of Carson" Reruns
By 1975, the era of "The Best of Carson" reruns on NBC affiliates came to an end, paving the way for new programming in that time slot.
1975: ABBA's Lip-Synced Performance
In 1975, the pop group ABBA made a notable appearance on Saturday Night Live, becoming the first and only act to perform with lip-syncing at that time.
1975: SNL's First Cold Open
Saturday Night Live premiered in 1975 with a cold open featuring Michael O'Donoghue, Chevy Chase, and John Belushi.
1975: "The Not Ready For Prime-Time Players" debut
The original cast of SNL, dubbed "The Not Ready For Prime-Time Players" by writer Herb Sargent, debuted in 1975. The cast included Laraine Newman, John Belushi, Jane Curtin, Gilda Radner, Dan Aykroyd, Garrett Morris, and Chevy Chase.
1975: Saturday Night Live Begins Airing From Studio 8H
When Saturday Night Live premiered in 1975, it aired from Studio 8H, a historic space located on the eighth and ninth floors of the Comcast Building in Rockefeller Plaza. This studio had a rich history, having been used as a radio soundstage for renowned figures like Arturo Toscanini and the NBC Symphony Orchestra.
1975: First SNL Cast Assembled
By 1975, Lorne Michaels had assembled a talented cast for the inaugural season of Saturday Night Live, including notable comedians such as Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, and Chevy Chase.
1975: The Saturday Night Live Band Forms With Howard Shore
In 1975, the Saturday Night Live Band, also known as "The Live Band," was formed as the house band for the show. Academy Award-winning composer Howard Shore was appointed as the first musical director, holding the position until 1980.
March 13, 1976: Censorship Concerns Arise
On March 13, 1976, an incident involving cast member Laraine Newman's language prompted concerns from network censors and almost resulted in the show being aired on a delay.
April 24, 1976: Weekend Update Segment Sparks Controversy
On April 24, 1976, a Weekend Update segment on Saturday Night Live sparked controversy and led to an on-air apology due to its jokes about Aspen murder suspect Claudine Longet.
1976: President Gerald Ford Appears
President Gerald Ford made a guest appearance on Saturday Night Live in 1976, marking the first time a sitting president appeared on the show.
1976: SNL Cast Album Release
The first cast album for Saturday Night Live was released in 1976 under the Arista label. The album included memorable moments from the show, such as the song "Chevy's Girls," Weekend Update segments, and sketches featuring popular characters like Emily Litella.
1976: Steve Martin Begins Hosting SNL
Steve Martin began his hosting tenure on Saturday Night Live in 1976, ultimately hosting a total of fifteen times.
1976: Chevy Chase Wins Emmy
Chevy Chase won the Primetime Emmy Award for Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program for his work on Saturday Night Live in 1976.
1976: NBC Acquires "Saturday Night Live" Name
NBC secured the rights to the name "Saturday Night Live" in 1976 after the cancellation of Howard Cosell's show with the same name on ABC.
1976: Chase's departure
Chevy Chase, initially hired as a writer, left SNL after the first season in 1976. Despite becoming a performer on the show, he had only signed a writer's contract, allowing him to leave.
1976: Chevy Chase's Impression of Gerald Ford
Chevy Chase's portrayal of President Gerald Ford on Saturday Night Live during the 1976 presidential election is often cited as a factor influencing the election's outcome.
1976: Chevy Chase Exits SNL
Chevy Chase left Saturday Night Live in 1976 to pursue a film career.
1976: SNL's Target Audience and Advertisers
By 1976, it became evident that Saturday Night Live had attracted a significant audience of baby boomers, a demographic highly sought after by television advertisers.
March 26, 1977: SNL Adopts New Title
On March 26, 1977, during the second season, "NBC's Saturday Night" officially changed its name to "Saturday Night Live" after acquiring the rights.
December 1977: Elvis Costello's Controversial Performance
In December 1977, musician Elvis Costello sparked controversy on Saturday Night Live when he abruptly stopped playing the agreed-upon song and launched into a different, more provocative one, leading to his ban from the show for 12 years.
1977: Dan Aykroyd's Film Debut
Dan Aykroyd landed a leading role in the Canadian film "Love at First Sight" in 1977, marking his entry into the world of film.
1977: "Saturday Night Live", the First Authorized Book, is Published
"Saturday Night Live," the first authorized book about the series, was published in 1977. Edited by Anne Beatts and John Head, it featured scripts and photography from the show's early years.
October 1978: SNL Returns Amidst Cast Tensions
Saturday Night Live returned for its fourth season in October 1978, facing challenges in retaining its cast after the success of "Animal House," which starred former cast member Chevy Chase.
1978: Bill Murray Replaces Chase on SNL
After Chevy Chase's departure from SNL in 1976, he was replaced by Bill Murray. When Chase returned to host in 1978, tension arose between him and the cast, particularly John Belushi, culminating in a physical altercation with Murray.
1978: "Best of Saturday Night Live" Compilations Released
Capitalizing on the show's growing popularity, "Best of Saturday Night Live" compilations were released in 1978, allowing a wider audience to enjoy the sketches.
1978: Gilda Radner Wins Emmy
Gilda Radner won a Primetime Emmy Award for Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program for her work on Saturday Night Live in 1978.
1979: Gilda Radner's Broadway Success and Cast Anxiety
Gilda Radner's successful one-woman Broadway show in 1979, produced by Lorne Michaels, further fueled concerns about cast members prioritizing individual projects over SNL, particularly as Bill Murray's film career took off with the release of "Meatballs."
1979: Georg Wadenius Joins the Saturday Night Live Band
In 1979, Georg Wadenius joined the Saturday Night Live Band, contributing his talents as a guitarist.
1979: Aykroyd and Belushi depart
Key cast members Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi left Saturday Night Live in 1979 after the end of season four.
May 10, 1980: "A Limo for a Lame-O" Weekend Update
On May 10, 1980, the Weekend Update segment titled "A Limo for a Lame-O" aired, written by Al Franken. This segment heavily criticized NBC president Fred Silverman's job performance and spending habits.
May 1980: Lorne Michaels requests hiatus
Exhausted after five seasons, Lorne Michaels requested to put SNL on hiatus in May 1980 so he could pursue other opportunities. He suggested writers Al Franken, Tom Davis, and Jim Downey as replacements, but this ultimately fell through.
1980: Lorne Michaels Leaves SNL
In 1980, Lorne Michaels decided to leave his role as showrunner, leading to Jean Doumanian taking over.
1980: Release of "The Blues Brothers"
The year 1980 saw the release of "The Blues Brothers" film, a notable example of a successful SNL sketch transitioning into a feature film.
1980: Doumanian's tumultuous season
Jean Doumanian took over as producer in 1980 and faced a difficult season marked by budget cuts, resentment from former staff, and a cast that failed to resonate with audiences.
1980: Howard Shore's Tenure as Musical Director Ends
In 1980, Howard Shore's tenure as the musical director of the Saturday Night Live Band came to an end.
1980: "The Blues Brothers" Released
"The Blues Brothers," starring Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi, marked SNL's first venture into feature films in 1980, becoming a commercial success.
1980: Lorne Michaels Departs SNL
Facing the increasing pressure of retaining his cast and evolving viewer demographics, Lorne Michaels decided to leave Saturday Night Live in 1980. Jean Doumanian was brought in as his replacement, ushering in a wave of changes for the show.
1980: Eddie Murphy's rise
During the 1980-1981 season, Eddie Murphy emerged as a breakout star on SNL under Dick Ebersol's leadership. He quickly became a major draw for the show.
1980: Denny Dillon Becomes First Gay Cast Member
Denny Dillon joined the cast of SNL in 1980, making history as the first gay cast member, although she was not publicly out at the time.
1981: Doumanian's firing and Tartikoff's intervention
After only ten months, Jean Doumanian was dismissed as producer following an on-air profanity incident. Brandon Tartikoff, the new network chief, saw value in SNL and decided to keep it going, appointing Dick Ebersol as the new producer.
1981: Don Pardo Steps Down as Announcer
In 1981, Don Pardo stepped down from his role as the announcer for Saturday Night Live.
1981: Tom Malone Becomes Musical Director of the Saturday Night Live Band
In 1981, Tom Malone assumed the role of musical director for the Saturday Night Live Band, a position he held until 1985.
1982: Don Pardo Returns as Announcer
In 1982, Don Pardo returned to his position as the announcer for Saturday Night Live after a one-season hiatus.
1983: Cast Departure and Salary Increases
Following the 1983-1984 season of Saturday Night Live, a significant portion of the Ebersol-era cast departed. Their replacements were established comedians like Billy Crystal and Martin Short, who commanded significantly higher salaries than previous cast members.
1983: Lou Marini Departs from the Saturday Night Live Band
In 1983, saxophonist Lou Marini left his role in the Saturday Night Live Band.
1984: Eddie Murphy Departs SNL
After a meteoric rise to fame, fueled by his success on SNL and in films like "48 Hrs." and "Trading Places," Eddie Murphy left Saturday Night Live in early 1984 to focus on his burgeoning film career.
1984: Murphy departs, Ebersol experiments
Eddie Murphy left SNL in 1984 to focus on his film career. In a break from tradition, Ebersol chose to replace him with established comedians like Billy Crystal and Martin Short.
1984: The Folksmen Debut on SNL
The Folksmen, a fictional folk music trio portrayed by comedians Harry Shearer, Michael McKean, and Christopher Guest, first graced the SNL stage during the 1984-1985 season. Their performance of "Old Joe's Place" marked their debut, predating their appearance in the 2002 film "A Mighty Wind". At the time, Shearer and Guest were part of the SNL cast.
May 1985: Occasional Preemptions for Saturday Night's Main Event Begin
From May 1985, SNL experienced occasional preemptions due to the broadcast of "Saturday Night's Main Event."
1985: Steve Ferrone and G.E. Smith Join the Saturday Night Live Band
In 1985, drummer Steve Ferrone and guitarist G.E. Smith joined the Saturday Night Live Band.
1985: Lorne Michaels Returns to SNL
Lorne Michaels returned to Saturday Night Live in 1985, marking his first involvement with the show since his departure in 1980. His return brought a new cast, but the season faced criticism, leading to further changes the following year.
1985: Michaels returns, embraces established talent
After a stint in film and television, Lorne Michaels returned to SNL in 1985, borrowing Ebersol's strategy of recruiting established actors like Joan Cusack and Robert Downey Jr.
1985: Terry Sweeney Becomes First Openly Gay Male Cast Member
In 1985, Terry Sweeney joined SNL as the first openly gay male cast member, marking a significant step for LGBTQ+ representation on network television.
1985: Jim Downey as Head Writer
In 1985, Jim Downey assumed the role of head writer for Saturday Night Live.
1985: Lorne Michaels Returns to SNL
After a brief hiatus, Lorne Michaels returned to Saturday Night Live in 1985, resuming his role as showrunner after Ebersol's departure.
April 1986: SNL faces cancellation
Facing creative struggles and declining viewership, SNL was nearly canceled in April 1986 by Brandon Tartikoff. However, producer Bernie Brillstein convinced him to give the show one more season, but with a shortened run of 13 episodes.
October 25, 1986: SNL Episode Hosted by Rosanna Arquette Delayed Due to World Series
The October 25, 1986, episode of Saturday Night Live, hosted by Rosanna Arquette, was postponed until November 8 due to NBC's broadcast of game 6 of the World Series.
1986: SNL Cast Overhaul Ushers in New Era
After a poorly received season, Lorne Michaels initiated another cast overhaul for Saturday Night Live in 1986. This new ensemble, featuring talents like Conan O'Brien, Robert Smigel, and Phil Hartman, would go on to define a new era for the show.
1986: Danitra Vance Joins as a Closeted Gay Cast Member
Danitra Vance joined the cast of SNL in 1986, becoming another significant but closeted gay presence on the show.
1986: "Saturday Night: A Backstage History of Saturday Night Live" is Released
Doug Hill and Jeff Weingrad provided a behind-the-scenes look at SNL's first decade with their book, "Saturday Night: A Backstage History of Saturday Night Live," published in 1986.
1988: Conan O'Brien Joins SNL Writing Staff
Conan O'Brien joined the writing team of Saturday Night Live in 1988.
1988: "The Best of Saturday Night Live" Begins Airing on Nick at Nite
Thirty- and sixty-minute versions of the first five seasons of Saturday Night Live aired in syndication as "The Best of Saturday Night Live" beginning in the 1980s, later airing on Nick at Nite in 1988.
1989: New Talent Joins SNL, Creating Cast Divide
The addition of Mike Myers, Adam Sandler, and Chris Farley to the cast of Saturday Night Live in 1989 led to an overcrowded ensemble and a divide between the veteran cast members and the new, younger talent. This resulted in increased competition for screen time.
July 26, 1990: "The Saturday Night Live Movie" Script Abandoned
Though a team of writers, including Al Franken and Conan O'Brien, worked on a screenplay for "The Saturday Night Live Movie," the project was abandoned after a revised first draft on July 26, 1990.
1990: Comedy Central Begins Airing SNL Reruns
Comedy Central started airing reruns of Saturday Night Live in 1990.
1990: Alec Baldwin Begins Hosting SNL
Alec Baldwin commenced his hosting journey on Saturday Night Live in 1990, eventually becoming the most frequent host with seventeen appearances.
April 1991: Occasional Preemptions for Saturday Night's Main Event End
By April 1991, the occasional preemptions for "Saturday Night's Main Event" came to an end, marking a return to SNL's regular broadcast schedule.
October 3, 1992: Sinéad O'Connor's Controversial Performance
On October 3, 1992, singer Sinéad O'Connor sparked controversy by ripping up a photo of Pope John Paul II during her performance on SNL.
1992: Cast departures and executive interference
Between 1992 and 1994, SNL saw the departure of major stars like Dana Carvey and Phil Hartman. At the same time, NBC executives, particularly Don Ohlmeyer, began interfering more in the show, even suggesting the firing of rising stars like Chris Farley and Adam Sandler.
1992: Dave Grohl's First Appearance as Musical Guest
Dave Grohl made his inaugural appearance as a musical guest on Saturday Night Live in 1992, marking the beginning of his frequent appearances on the show.
1992: Release of "Wayne's World"
In 1992, "Wayne's World," another successful SNL sketch, was adapted into a popular feature film.
1992: Ratings Rebound
The 1992-1993 season of Saturday Night Live marked a ratings rebound for the show, becoming the fifth highest-rated season in its history.
1992: Bob Roberts Appears in SNL Short Film
The character Bob Roberts, a conservative folk singer, first appeared on SNL in a short film in 1992, predating the release of Tim Robbins' mockumentary of the same name.
1992: "Wayne's World" Released
The success of "Wayne's World" in 1992 led to a wave of SNL sketch-based films.
1993: German Version of SNL, "RTL Samstag Nacht," Premieres
A German adaptation of Saturday Night Live titled "RTL Samstag Nacht" premiered in 1993 and ran until 1998 on RTL Television.
1993: Dana Carvey Wins Emmy
Dana Carvey received a Primetime Emmy Award for his performance on Saturday Night Live in 1993.
1993: Mike Judge's Animated Shorts Premiere
Mike Judge, known for his satirical humor, debuted a series of animated short films on SNL in 1993. These shorts would later serve as the inspiration for the 1999 comedy film "Office Space".
1993: "Coneheads" Released
The 1970s characters, the Coneheads, were revived for a feature film in 1993.
1994: "It's Pat" Released
The film "It's Pat," based on the androgynous character, was released in 1994 but was pulled from theaters after a week due to poor performance.
1994: Criticism and tensions escalate
SNL faced mounting criticism in 1994, fueled by both media scrutiny and dissatisfaction within the cast and crew, partly due to NBC's interference.
1994: "Saturday Night Live: The First Twenty Years" is Published
In 1994, Michael Cader's book, "Saturday Night Live: The First Twenty Years," commemorated the show's two decades on air, chronicling memorable moments, cast members, and characters.
1995: Major cast overhaul
1995 witnessed a significant cast change. Mike Myers departed after six years, while Chris Farley and Adam Sandler were let go, amongst others. A new generation, including Will Ferrell, Cheri Oteri, and Darrell Hammond, joined the show.
1995: G.E. Smith's Tenure as Musical Director Ends
In 1995, G.E. Smith concluded his time as the musical director for the Saturday Night Live Band.
1995: Major Cast Departure Rocks SNL
Saturday Night Live underwent a major cast change in 1995 as key players, including Dana Carvey, Phil Hartman, Mike Myers, Adam Sandler, and Chris Farley, all departed the show. This marked a turning point in the show's history, leading to the introduction of a new generation of comedians.
1995: "Stuart Saves His Family" Released
The film "Stuart Saves His Family," based on the self-help character, was released in 1995 but resulted in significant financial losses.
April 13, 1996: Rage Against the Machine's Political Statement
On April 13, 1996, the band Rage Against the Machine made a political statement during their SNL performance by hanging upside-down American flags from their amplifiers to protest guest host Steve Forbes.
1997: Ohlmeyer targets Michaels
Don Ohlmeyer, aiming to control SNL more tightly, forced Lorne Michaels to remove writer Jim Downey and cast member Norm Macdonald from the show in 1997.
1998: "A Night at the Roxbury" Released
"A Night at the Roxbury," featuring the head-bobbing characters from the popular sketch, was released in 1998.
1998: German Version of SNL, "RTL Samstag Nacht," Ends
After a successful run, the German adaptation of Saturday Night Live, "RTL Samstag Nacht," concluded in 1998.
1998: Saturday Night Live Transitions to Digital Production Tracking
In 1998, Saturday Night Live made a pivotal technological shift by transitioning from a primarily analog production tracking system to a digital one. This move modernized the show's behind-the-scenes operations and enhanced its ability to store, manage, and process the vast amounts of audio and video data generated during each live broadcast.
1998: Reruns of SNL Episodes from 1998 Onward Become Available
In 1998, reruns of Saturday Night Live episodes from that year onward were made available for broadcast.
1998: "Schweddy Balls" Sketch Airs on SNL
The sketch "Schweddy Balls," featuring Alec Baldwin, Ana Gasteyer, and Molly Shannon, aired on Saturday Night Live in 1998. The sketch, known for its suggestive humor, would later inspire a Ben & Jerry's ice cream flavor of the same name in 2011.
1999: Office Space film release
The comedy film "Office Space", directed by Mike Judge, premiered in 1999. The film's origins can be traced back to a series of animated short films created by Mike Judge that aired on SNL in 1993.
1999: Mary Ellen Matthews Becomes Official Photographer for Saturday Night Live
In 1999, Mary Ellen Matthews assumed the role of official photographer for Saturday Night Live. Her responsibilities encompassed a wide range of photographic needs, including capturing distinctive portraits of each episode's hosts and musical guests, which were used as commercial bumpers during the show.
1999: New SNL Contract Introduced
In 1999, a new contract was introduced for Saturday Night Live cast members, allowing NBC to potentially include them in sitcoms after their second year.
1999: "Superstar" Released
"Superstar," a film adaptation based on the Mary Katherine Gallagher character, was released in 1999.
2000: "The Ladies Man" Released
"The Ladies Man," starring Tim Meadows as his character from the musical sketch, was released in 2000.
2000: SNL Inducted into Hall of Fame
In 2000, Saturday Night Live was recognized for its cultural impact and legacy when it was inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
2000: Tina Fey Makes History as First Female Head Writer
In 2000, Tina Fey made history by becoming the first female head writer for Saturday Night Live.
2000: New SNL Contract Introduced
In 2000, a new contract was introduced for Saturday Night Live cast members, allowing NBC to potentially include them in sitcoms after their second year.
February 10, 2001: SNL Episode Hosted by Jennifer Lopez Delayed Due to XFL Game
An XFL game caused a 45-minute delay for the February 10, 2001, episode of Saturday Night Live, hosted by Jennifer Lopez.
September 11, 2001: Political Content Briefly Suspended
Following the September 11, 2001, attacks, Saturday Night Live briefly suspended its political content, as writers felt it was inappropriate at the time.
2001: Will Ferrell Becomes Highest Paid Cast Member
In 2001, Will Ferrell became the highest-paid cast member in SNL history, earning a salary of $350,000 per season.
2002: The Folksmen in A Mighty Wind
The fictional folk music group, The Folksmen, made their cinematic debut in the Christopher Guest mockumentary "A Mighty Wind" in 2002. The group, composed of Harry Shearer, Michael McKean, and Christopher Guest, had previously appeared on SNL in the 1984-1985 season, performing their song "Old Joe's Place".
2002: TV Tales Explores SNL
The E! series "TV Tales" delved into the world of Saturday Night Live in 2002. This particular episode offered insights into the show's production process and its enduring legacy in the world of comedy.
2002: John McCain's First Appearance
Senator John McCain made his first appearance on Saturday Night Live in 2002.
2002: Ranked Among Greatest TV Shows
In 2002, TV Guide ranked Saturday Night Live tenth on its list of the 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time.
2002: Israeli SNL-Based Show "Am Israel Hai" Premieres and Is Canceled
An Israeli show based on the SNL format, called "Am Israel Hai" (People of Israel Live), premiered in 2002 but was unfortunately canceled after a single season.
2002: Oral History Reveals On-Set Altercation
A 2002 oral history of Saturday Night Live revealed details of the physical altercation between Chevy Chase and Bill Murray during Chase's hosting gig in 1978.
2002: "Live From New York: An Uncensored History of Saturday Night Live" is Released
"Live From New York: An Uncensored History of Saturday Night Live, as Told By Its Stars, Writers and Guests," released in 2002, offered an insider's perspective through interviews with those who had been a part of the show.
2003: Israeli SNL-Esque Show "Eretz Nehederet" Premieres
"Eretz Nehederet" (A Wonderful Country), another Israeli show inspired by SNL, debuted in 2003 and achieved significant popularity.
2003: Kenan Thompson Joins SNL
Kenan Thompson joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in 2003, marking the beginning of what would become the longest tenure for any cast member in the show's history.
October 2004: 60 Minutes Goes Behind the Scenes at SNL
In October 2004, the news program "60 Minutes" aired a segment that took viewers behind the curtain at Saturday Night Live, revealing the intense, often chaotic, writing process that unfolds in the week leading up to a live show. The segment captured the frenetic atmosphere of brainstorming sessions, the long hours put in by the cast and crew, and the collaborative effort involved in developing and selecting sketches, including input from the week's guest host.
October 23, 2004: Ashlee Simpson's Lip Sync Mishap
On October 23, 2004, Ashlee Simpson experienced a lip sync mishap when the wrong vocals played during her second song on SNL. She left the stage and later attributed the incident to her band playing the wrong song.
2004: Comedy Central Ends First Run of SNL Reruns
Comedy Central's first run of airing Saturday Night Live reruns ended in 2004.
2004: Jay Mohr Releases Memoir About His Time on SNL
Former cast member Jay Mohr published his memoir, "Gasping for Airtime: Two Years in the Trenches of Saturday Night Live," in 2004. The book recounted his experiences and challenges during his two seasons on the show.
2004: Ashlee Simpson's Controversial Performance
In 2004, Ashlee Simpson's performance on Saturday Night Live sparked controversy due to a lip-syncing incident.
2004: Don Pardo Expresses Intention to Retire
In 2004, Don Pardo announced his intention to retire from his role as the announcer for Saturday Night Live but ultimately continued in the position.
2004: Weekend Update Writing Process Described by Tina Fey
In 2004, Tina Fey, a prominent writer and performer on Saturday Night Live, revealed insights into the writing process for the show's iconic "Weekend Update" segment. According to Fey, a dedicated team of three to four writers would work throughout the week crafting jokes for the segment.
October 2005: Saturday Night Live Upgrades to High-Definition Broadcasting
In October 2005, coinciding with its thirty-first season premiere, Saturday Night Live transitioned to high-definition television broadcasting. This technological advancement allowed viewers with compatible televisions to experience the show in a sharper and more detailed format.
2005: The Lonely Island's "Lazy Sunday" Debut
The comedy group The Lonely Island, comprising SNL cast members Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer, and Jorma Taccone, gained national recognition in 2005 with the release of their music video "Lazy Sunday" on SNL. The song, co-written with fellow cast member Chris Parnell, became a viral sensation, leading show creator Lorne Michaels to encourage the group to produce more comedy music.
2005: Seth Meyers Becomes Co-Head Writer
In 2005, Seth Meyers joined the writing team of Saturday Night Live as a co-head writer.
2005: Colin Jost Begins Writing for SNL
Colin Jost embarked on his writing career at Saturday Night Live in 2005.
2005: Tina Fey's Salary Revealed
In 2005, it was reported that Tina Fey received a salary of $1.5 million per season for her dual role as both head writer and performer on Saturday Night Live.
2006: Reruns of SNL Episodes from 2006 Onward Become Available
By 2006, reruns of Saturday Night Live episodes from that year onward were made available for broadcast.
2006: Don Pardo Records Announcements Remotely
For a brief period in 2006, Don Pardo pre-recorded his announcements for Saturday Night Live from his home in Arizona.
2007: SNL Makes Time's "100 Best TV Shows"
In 2007, Time magazine recognized the enduring impact of Saturday Night Live by including it in their list of "100 Best TV Shows of All-TIME."
2007: "Dick in a Box" Wins Emmy
The Lonely Island received a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics in 2007 for their song "Dick in a Box." The song, featuring Justin Timberlake, was originally performed on SNL and became another viral hit for the comedic trio.
2007: Barack Obama Appears
Then-Senator Barack Obama made a guest appearance on Saturday Night Live in 2007.
2007: Honored by Time Magazine
Time magazine included Saturday Night Live on its list of the "100 Best TV Shows of All-TIME" in 2007.
December 6, 2008: Saturday Night Documentary
"Saturday Night," a documentary directed by actor James Franco, premiered in 2010, offering a glimpse into the making of the December 6, 2008, episode of Saturday Night Live hosted by John Malkovich. The film, which began as a short for Franco's NYU film class, expanded with Lorne Michaels's approval to provide an in-depth look at the show's production process, from conception to live broadcast.
2008: Notable Political Appearances
Saturday Night Live featured appearances by notable political figures in 2008, including John McCain (his second appearance), Hillary Clinton, Sarah Palin, and Barack Obama.
2008: Seth Meyers Becomes Head Writer
Seth Meyers became the head writer for Saturday Night Live in 2008.
2008: Seth Meyers Becomes "Weekend Update" Host
Seth Meyers became the solo host of "Weekend Update" on Saturday Night Live in 2008.
2008: SNL Effect in 2008 Election
The "SNL Effect" was observed during the 2008 presidential election, with voters indicating that political sketches on the show influenced their voting decisions, particularly in favor of Barack Obama.
2009: Incredibad Album Release
The Lonely Island released their debut album "Incredibad" in 2009. The album featured a collection of their popular SNL digital shorts, including "Lazy Sunday," "Jizz in My Pants," and "I'm on a Boat," as well as new comedic tracks.
2009: Emmy Nomination Record
Saturday Night Live earned thirteen Emmy nominations in 2009, surpassing the previous record for most nominations held by ER, with a total of 126 nominations at that time.
2009: Don Pardo's Retirement Announcements
Don Pardo made another retirement announcement in 2009 but continued in his role for the 2009-2010 season.
2009: Saturday Night Live Employs Canon EOS 5D Mark II and 7D Cameras
In 2009, Saturday Night Live embraced the capabilities of digital SLR cameras by incorporating the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and Canon EOS 7D into its production process. These cameras were primarily used for capturing the opening title sequence and opening montage, showcasing the show's commitment to delivering high-quality visuals.
September 2010: Reruns of SNL Begin Airing on VH1
Reruns of most episodes of Saturday Night Live made from 1998 onward began airing on VH1 in September 2010.
2010: "Saturday Night" Documentary Release
"Saturday Night," a documentary directed by James Franco, premiered in 2010. The film provided an intimate view of the production process behind a specific episode of Saturday Night Live, the December 6, 2008, episode hosted by John Malkovich.
2010: Mary Ellen Matthews Expands Role to Include Video Direction
Expanding her contributions beyond photography, Mary Ellen Matthews took on additional responsibilities starting in 2010 by directing videos for Saturday Night Live. Notably, this included her involvement in directing the show's title sequence, showcasing her creative versatility and impact on the show's visual identity.
2010: Kristen Wiig's Seven Year Contract
In 2010, it was reported that Kristen Wiig had signed a seven-year contract with Saturday Night Live.
2010: Don Pardo Begins Permanent Remote Recording
Starting in 2010, Don Pardo began permanently recording his announcements for Saturday Night Live from Arizona.
September 2011: "Schweddy Balls" Ice Cream Release
Ben & Jerry's, known for their playful ice cream flavors, launched a limited-edition flavor called "Schweddy Balls" in September 2011. This flavor, a play on a 1998 SNL skit featuring Alec Baldwin, Ana Gasteyer, and Molly Shannon, quickly gained notoriety, becoming the company's fastest-selling limited-edition flavor. However, the suggestive name sparked controversy, prompting boycotts from groups like One Million Moms and leading some retailers to pull the product from their shelves.
December 3, 2011: South Korean Version of SNL, "SNL Korea," Premieres
South Korea launched its own version of Saturday Night Live, "SNL Korea," on December 3, 2011, on the cable channel tvN.
2011: Japanese Version of SNL, "Saturday Night Live JPN," Airs for Six Months
The Japanese adaptation of Saturday Night Live, "Saturday Night Live JPN," aired for a planned six-month run in 2011.
2011: Turtleneck & Chain Album Release
In 2011, The Lonely Island dropped their second studio album, "Turtleneck & Chain." Following the success of their debut, this album also incorporated songs developed during their time on SNL, such as "I Just Had Sex" (featuring Akon) and "Jack Sparrow" (featuring Michael Bolton), alongside fresh material.
2011: Weekend Update Gets Dedicated Writing Team
Starting in the 2011-2012 season, Saturday Night Live's Weekend Update segment established a dedicated team of writers led by head writer and producer Alex Baze.
2012: Colin Jost Becomes Head Writer
Colin Jost was appointed as head writer for Saturday Night Live in 2012.
2012: Seth Meyers Concludes Role as Head Writer
Seth Meyers concluded his tenure as head writer for Saturday Night Live in 2012.
February 2013: NBC Begins Airing Shortened Hour-Long Repeats of SNL
In February 2013, NBC started airing shortened hour-long reruns of SNL on select Saturday evenings.
June 2013: Recognized for Writing
The Writers Guild of America ranked Saturday Night Live as the 25th best-written show of all time in June 2013.
December 2013: Ranked on TV Guide's Greatest Shows List
TV Guide ranked Saturday Night Live #18 on its list of the 60 Greatest Shows of All Time in December 2013.
2013: SNL Expands Cast to Address Departures
To compensate for the departure of several long-standing cast members, including Bill Hader, Jason Sudeikis, and Fred Armisen, Saturday Night Live added six new cast members in 2013, marking one of its most significant cast transitions.
2013: Russian Adaptation of SNL, "Суббота. Вечер. Шоу," Premieres
In 2013, a Russian adaptation of Saturday Night Live called "Суббота. Вечер. Шоу" (Saturday. Evening. Show) premiered on the channel NTV.
2013: Saturday Night Live's 39th Season Receives a Subsidy from New York State
Saturday Night Live's 39th season, airing in 2013-2014, had a budget exceeding $70 million. To support the show's production, New York State provided a subsidy of $12.3 million. This financial assistance highlighted the show's significant cultural and economic impact on the state.
2013: Michael Che Joins SNL Writing Team
Michael Che joined the writing staff of Saturday Night Live in 2013.
2013: Kenan Thompson's Comments on Racial Representation
In 2013, longtime cast member Kenan Thompson sparked debate when he suggested that the lack of black women on SNL was due to a lack of "ready" talent, a claim challenged by those who believed the show itself needed to do more to address systemic issues. Thompson himself refused to portray any more black women on the show, advocating for the hiring of black women instead.
2013: Cecily Strong Joins Seth Meyers on "Weekend Update"
Cecily Strong joined Seth Meyers as co-host of "Weekend Update" on Saturday Night Live in 2013.
January 2014: Remaining Episodes of Russian SNL Adaptation Air Under New Title
The remaining six episodes of the Russian adaptation of Saturday Night Live, initially titled "Суббота. Вечер. Шоу" (Saturday. Evening. Show), were eventually broadcasted in January 2014 without prior notice and retitled as "Сегодня. Вечер. Шоу" (Today. Evening. Show).
February 2014: Seth Meyers Exits Weekend Update, Colin Jost and Michael Che Take Over
Seth Meyers left his role as "Weekend Update" host in February 2014 to host "Late Night with Seth Meyers." Cecily Strong was briefly paired with head writer Colin Jost, but was later replaced by writer Michael Che.
March 22, 2014: SNL Québec Second Special
On March 22, 2014, the second of two ninety-minute specials of SNL Québec aired, hosted by Stéphane Rousseau.
May 13, 2014: SNL Québec Renewed
On May 13, 2014, Télé-Québec renewed SNL Québec for an eight-episode first season after two well-received specials.
June 2014: Ben & Jerry's Releases SNL-Inspired Flavors
Expanding upon the success, and controversy, of "Schweddy Balls," Ben & Jerry's introduced two new limited-edition flavors in June 2014, both inspired by popular SNL sketches. "Lazy Sunday" paid homage to the digital short featuring Andy Samberg and Chris Parnell, while "Gilly's Catastrophic Crunch" referenced the recurring character Gilly played by Kristen Wiig.
August 18, 2014: Don Pardo Passes Away
Don Pardo, the longtime announcer for Saturday Night Live, passed away on August 18, 2014, at the age of 96.
September 2014: "Two Wild and Crazy Pies" Ice Cream Debut
In September 2014, Ben & Jerry's continued their SNL-themed ice cream series with "Two Wild and Crazy Pies." This flavor took its name from the catchphrase made famous by the Festrunk Brothers, a recurring set of characters on the show.
2014: Seth Meyers Departs from SNL
In 2014, Seth Meyers left his role on Saturday Night Live.
2014: Michael Che Briefly Departs and Returns to SNL
In 2014, Michael Che briefly left Saturday Night Live but returned later that year to anchor Update and resume his writing role.
2014: Saturday Night Live Adopts Grass Valley Switching Systems
By 2014, Saturday Night Live had incorporated state-of-the-art routing and switching systems into its production workflow, specifically the Grass Valley GVG 4000-3 digital component production switcher and GVG 7000 digital component routing switcher. These sophisticated systems facilitated the seamless routing of visual feeds to the control room, ensuring smooth transitions between cameras and other video sources during live broadcasts.
2014: SNL Vintage Begins Airing
For its 40th anniversary in 2014, SNL began airing prime time rebroadcasts of episodes from throughout its run under the title "SNL Vintage."
February 2015: "Wayne'Swirled" Ice Cream Release
Continuing to mine humor from the iconic sketch comedy show, Ben & Jerry's debuted "Wayne'Swirled" in February 2015. The flavor's moniker drew inspiration from the beloved "Wayne's World" sketches, a staple of SNL during the early 1990s.
February 15, 2015: SNL 40th Anniversary Special
NBC celebrated four decades of Saturday Night Live with a star-studded 3 1/2-hour special that aired on February 15, 2015. The broadcast took viewers on a nostalgic journey through the show's history, showcasing a compilation of memorable clips, fresh performances of iconic characters by former cast members, and appearances by an array of past hosts.
May 2015: SNL Québec Cancellation
In May 2015, Télé-Québec announced the cancellation of SNL Québec after one season due to funding cuts.
2015: Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump Appearances
Hillary Clinton made her second appearance on Saturday Night Live in 2015, while Donald Trump's hosting of the show sparked controversy.
2015: Reruns of Russian SNL Adaptation Air on NTV
Throughout the first half of 2015, NTV aired reruns of the Russian adaptation of Saturday Night Live.
2015: Comedy Central Begins Second Run of SNL Reruns
Comedy Central picked up the rights to air reruns of Saturday Night Live again in 2015.
2015: Colin Jost Concludes First Tenure as Head Writer
Colin Jost concluded his first tenure as head writer for Saturday Night Live in 2015.
2015: Industry Recognition
A 2015 survey by The Hollywood Reporter revealed that industry professionals ranked Saturday Night Live as their seventh favorite show.
February 2016: "Live From New York, It's Satur-Gay Night!" Marathon Premieres on Logo
VH1 and Comedy Central's sister channel Logo premiered reruns of SNL episodes from 2006 onward as counterprogramming for Super Bowl 50 in February 2016, branding it the "Live From New York, It's Satur-Gay Night!" marathon.
October 1, 2016: Melissa Villaseñor Becomes Second Latina Cast Member
Melissa Villaseñor joined SNL as a featured player on October 1, 2016, becoming the show's second Latina cast member and later the first to be promoted to repertory status.
2016: Urban Popularity
A 2016 New York Times study found that Saturday Night Live is particularly popular in urban areas and college towns.
2016: Study Reveals Racial Disparity in SNL Hosts
A 2016 study analyzing SNL episodes from 1975 to 2016 revealed a significant racial disparity among hosts, with over 90% being white and minimal representation from other racial groups.
2016: Kate McKinnon's First Emmy Win
Kate McKinnon received her first Primetime Emmy Award for Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her work on Saturday Night Live in 2016.
January 2017: Le Saturday Night Live Premiere
The French adaptation of Saturday Night Live, Le Saturday Night Live, premiered on M6.
February 11, 2017: Alec Baldwin Becomes Most Frequent SNL Host
As of February 11, 2017, Alec Baldwin holds the record for most times hosting Saturday Night Live, with seventeen appearances to his name.
March 16, 2017: NBC Announces Live Broadcast of Final Four Episodes of Season 42 in All Mainland U.S. Time Zones
NBC announced on March 16, 2017, its plan to broadcast the final four episodes of Saturday Night Live's 42nd season live across all mainland U.S. time zones.
September 19, 2017: NBC Announces Live Coast-to-Coast Broadcast of All Subsequent Episodes
On September 19, 2017, NBC shared its decision to air all future episodes of Saturday Night Live live from coast to coast in the U.S.
November 11, 2017: "SNL Korea" Completes Nine Seasons
As of November 11, 2017, "SNL Korea" had successfully completed nine seasons with a total of 205 episodes.
December 2, 2017: SNL Polska Premieres
The Polish adaptation of Saturday Night Live, SNL Polska, premiered on Showmax.
2017: Kate McKinnon and Alec Baldwin Win Emmys
Kate McKinnon won her second consecutive Primetime Emmy Award for her performance on Saturday Night Live in 2017, while Alec Baldwin also won an Emmy for his recurring guest role as Donald Trump.
2017: SNL Begins Live Broadcast Across the Contiguous United States
In 2017, Saturday Night Live began its transition to live broadcasts across the contiguous United States, marking a significant change in its broadcasting history.
2017: Colin Jost Returns as Head Writer
Colin Jost returned to the position of head writer for Saturday Night Live in 2017.
2017: Lenny Pickett, Leon Pendarvis, and Eli Brueggemann Lead the Saturday Night Live Band
As of 2017, the Saturday Night Live Band is under the leadership of Tower of Power alumnus Lenny Pickett, keyboardist Leon Pendarvis, and Eli Brueggemann. Notably, Brueggemann does not perform with the band during the live show.
2017: Weekend Update Establishes a Dedicated Writing Staff
In a significant shift in its production process, "Weekend Update" on Saturday Night Live established its own independent writing staff in late 2017. This change meant that the segment's writing team was no longer solely responsible for crafting news jokes, allowing for greater specialization and focus within the writing department.
March 2018: Criticism of SNL's Diversity Record
In March 2018, NewNoxwNext published an article criticizing SNL's historical lack of diversity, highlighting the show's overwhelming reliance on white hosts and a perceived lack of progress in representation.
December 2018: SNL Polska Cancellation
Showmax shut down its Polish branch in December 2018, leading to the cancellation of SNL Polska.
2018: Saturday Night Live Utilizes Sony HDC-1500 Cameras
As of 2018, Saturday Night Live has embraced advanced camera technology by utilizing five Sony HDC-1500 cameras for its productions. These high-definition cameras are primarily mounted on Vinten pedestals, providing stability and smooth camera movements during filming.
2018: Ratings Decline in the 2000s
By 2018, thirteen of the lowest-rated seasons of Saturday Night Live had aired during the 2000s.
2019: Bowen Yang Becomes First East Asian Cast Member
Bowen Yang's promotion to on-air performer in 2019 marked a significant moment as he became the first East Asian cast member in SNL's history, highlighting the show's historically limited Asian representation.
October 11, 2020: Dave Grohl Becomes Most Frequent Musical Guest
As of October 11, 2020, Dave Grohl earned the distinction of being the most frequent musical guest on Saturday Night Live, with fourteen performances to his credit.
November 7, 2020: SNL Episode Hosted by Dave Chappelle Starts Late Due to Football Game
The start time of the November 7, 2020, episode of Saturday Night Live, with Dave Chappelle as host, was pushed back to 12:10 a.m. Eastern Time because a Clemson-Notre Dame college football game went into double overtime.
2020: Criticism Over Guest Actors and Content Relevance
Some critics argued that Saturday Night Live had become overly reliant on guest actors, particularly for political impersonations, and struggled to produce fresh and relevant comedic content in 2020.
May 8, 2021: Elon Musk Hosts First-Ever Global Livestream of SNL on YouTube
Elon Musk hosted Saturday Night Live on May 8, 2021, marking the first time the show was livestreamed globally on YouTube.
September 4, 2021: "SNL Korea" Is Rebooted on Coupang Play
"SNL Korea" was relaunched on September 4, 2021, and broadcast on Coupang Play, a South Korean over-the-top streaming platform.
December 10, 2021: UK Version in Development
On December 10, 2021, Deadline reported that Sky One was developing a UK version of Saturday Night Live.
December 2021: Michaels hints at departure
In December 2021, Lorne Michaels hinted that season 50 of SNL, coinciding with its 50th anniversary, might be his last.
December 18, 2021: SNL Airs Without Musical Guest Due to Omicron Variant
On December 18, 2021, the episode of Saturday Night Live hosted by Paul Rudd made history as the first episode without any musical performances since the first episode of season 12. This marked the third time in the show's history that no musical guest appeared. The decision stemmed from the surge of the Omicron variant in New York City, leading to stringent restrictions. Charli XCX, the intended musical guest, had her performance canceled due to these limitations, with the show operating with a "limited cast and crew" and no audience.
August 2022: Thompson suggests possible end
Kenan Thompson speculated in August 2022 that SNL might conclude after its 50th season in 2025, following Lorne Michaels's potential retirement. He suggested the show's budget might be significantly reduced, impacting its quality.
September 2022: Record-Breaking Emmy Nominations
By September 2022, Saturday Night Live had received a record-breaking 305 Primetime Emmy Award nominations.
2022: New Head Writers for SNL
As of the 2022-2023 season, Kent Sublette, Alison Gates, and Streeter Seidell became co-head writers for Saturday Night Live.
2022: SNL Receives Over 305 Emmy Nominations
By 2022, Saturday Night Live achieved a significant milestone by garnering over 305 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, a record for a television program.
2022: Colin Jost Concludes Second Tenure as Head Writer
Colin Jost's second tenure as head writer for Saturday Night Live came to an end in 2022.
2022: SNL Hires New Cast Members After Multiple Departures
In 2022, Saturday Night Live experienced another major cast change with the departure of eight cast members, including prominent figures like Kate McKinnon, Pete Davidson, and Aidy Bryant. To fill the void, the show brought in four new cast members.
2022: Molly Kearney Joins as First Non-Binary Cast Member
Molly Kearney's addition to the cast in 2022 marked another milestone as they became the first openly non-binary cast member on SNL.
October 14, 2023: SNL Begins 49th Season
On October 14, 2023, Saturday Night Live commenced its 49th season, solidifying its status as a long-standing program on television.
2023: NBC Drops "SNL Vintage" Titling
Starting in the 2023-2024 season, NBC dropped the "SNL Vintage" titling and shifted to airing very recent rebroadcasts of SNL.
2023: Ranked Among Greatest TV Shows by Variety
Variety ranked Saturday Night Live #15 on its list of the 100 greatest TV shows of all time in 2023.
2024: Shane Gillis Hosts SNL After Past Controversy
Shane Gillis, who had been fired from SNL in 2019 due to controversial remarks, returned to host the show in 2024, sparking further debate about representation and accountability.
2025: Potential end of an era
SNL's 50th anniversary in 2025 is speculated to mark a turning point for the show, with both Lorne Michaels and Kenan Thompson hinting at a possible end. However, no official announcement has been made.