Sunday, February 16, was a historic night for television as Saturday Night Live celebrated its 50th anniversary with a star-studded, three-hour special on NBC. Since its debut in 1975, the legendary sketch comedy show has been a cultural staple, and this milestone event brought together past and present cast members, iconic hosts, and surprise celebrity guests to honor five decades of groundbreaking comedy.
The special was packed with nostalgic throwbacks, reimagined classic sketches, heartfelt tributes, and unforgettable performances, making it a must-watch for fans of all generations. But no major celebrity event is complete without a little drama. Whether it was controversial jokes, long-awaited reunions, or buzz-worthy red carpet moments, SNL50 delivered plenty to discuss.
Ryan Reynolds Makes a Joke
Blake Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, were among the many celebrities who attended Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary special. Their appearance was a surprise, given their ongoing legal battle with Justin Baldoni.
During the Q&A segment, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler asked Reynolds how things were going, to which he jokingly replied, “Great. Why? What have you heard?” The remark was widely seen as a nod to the highly publicized feud between the couple and Baldoni. In response, Baldoni criticized the skit, arguing that it made light of Lively’s request for an enhanced protective order, which aims to keep much of the legal proceedings private.
Reynolds’s decision to joke about the situation has sparked backlash, including from Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman. The legal battle stems from Lively’s accusations that Baldoni sexually harassed her on the set of It Ends With Us—allegations that led Baldoni to file a defamation lawsuit against both Lively and Reynolds. Given the seriousness of the case, some question why Reynolds would make light of a matter involving his wife’s alleged harassment. To read more about the legal battle, click here.
Amy Poehler Compares SNL 50 to a High School Reunion
Amy Poehler is an actress and comedian who joined Saturday Night Live as a cast member in 2001. From 2004 to 2008, she served as a co-anchor of the show’s news segment, “Weekend Update.” In 2015, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to television. In 2012, she won a Critics’ Choice Award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series, followed by a Golden Globe Award in 2014 for Best Actress in a Television Musical or Comedy Series.
Poehler attended SNL 50 and spoke with NBC’s Willie Geist before the event. She stated, “We all grew up here. We’re having a lot of big feelings. It’s great to see everyone, and it’s great to be back.”
Poehler was part of the cast from seasons 27 to 34 and left in 2008.
Seth Rogen and James Franco Attend SNL 50 After Friendship Fallout
Seth Rogen and James Franco attended the SNL 50 special despite their long-standing friendship fallout. The actors first met while starring in Freaks and Geeks in 1999. They later worked together in the 2000s and 2010s on projects such as Pineapple Express and The Interview.
Franco revealed last year that he had cut ties with Rogen. He told Variety in October, “I haven’t talked to Seth. I love Seth. We had 20 great years together, but I guess it’s over. And not for lack of trying. I’ve told him how much he’s meant to me.” Their appearance at SNL 50 sparked speculation among fans about whether they had reconciled or if they simply put aside their differences for the event.
Sabrina Carpenter’s Skit
Sabrina Carpenter reunited with both current and former Saturday Night Live cast members to celebrate the show’s 50th anniversary. She made her SNL debut just last spring, performing as the musical guest during the season 49 finale alongside Jake Gyllenhaal.
Her hit single “Espresso” became the inspiration for the viral “Bridesmaid Speech” sketch, which introduced Marcello Hernandez’s fan-favorite character, Domingo. After the sketch took off across social media, Domingo made a surprise appearance at Sabrina’s Los Angeles tour stop, delighting fans and sparking days of online buzz.
Best Red Carpet Looks
SNL 50 was not only a celebration of comedy but also a showcase of high fashion, with celebrities and former cast members making bold fashion statements on the red carpet. From classic Hollywood glam to edgy, modern designs, the night was filled with memorable looks. Here are a few of our favorite looks…
Emma Stone in Louis Vuitton
Emma Stone added a playful twist to her red carpet ensemble by filling the pockets of her custom Louis Vuitton gown with popcorn and using the box as a unique accessory. The gown showcased a halter neckline and a thigh-high slit, blending elegance with a touch of humor.
Jenna Ortega in Monse
Jenna Ortega turned heads in a chic, silky brown slip dress by Monse. The elegant gown featured a plunging V-neckline and a unique scarf detail that added a touch of effortless sophistication. She completed the look with delicate gold jewelry and strappy heels, keeping her style minimal yet striking.
Sabrina Carpenter in Versace
Sabrina Carpenter brought her classic Hollywood style to SNL 50, wearing a stunning nude Versace gown covered in sparkling crystals. The fitted design highlighted her figure, while the glittering details gave the dress a timeless, elegant feel.
Kim Kardashian in Balenciaga
Kim Kardashian grabbed attention as she showed off her famous curves in a tight silver Balenciaga gown. The smooth, form-fitting design highlighted her shape, and the shiny material added extra sparkle.
Keke Palmer in Tom Ford
Keke Palmer looked stunning in a deep purple Tom Ford gown. She completed the look with simple jewelry and striking orange hair, making the outfit come together perfectly.
Final Thoughts
SNL 50 was a historic event that celebrated five decades of groundbreaking comedy, cultural impact, and unforgettable moments. From emotional reunions and controversial jokes to viral sketches and high-fashion red carpet looks, the night had something for everyone.
As SNL moves into its next chapter, one thing is clear—its legacy of pushing boundaries and shaping pop culture remains as strong as ever. Fans can only imagine what the next 50 years will bring for this legendary show.
