Saturday Night Live Set to Launch in the UK in 2026

Get ready for a British take on a comedy institution! Sky has announced that a UK version of the iconic "Saturday Night Live" is set to premiere in 2026. The London-based show promises to capture the same live, fast-paced, and satirical sketch comedy style that has made the American original a global phenomenon for nearly 50 years.

Key Takeaways

• Premiere Date: The show is slated to launch on Sky in 2026.

• Location: It will be based in London, with the iconic opening line adapted to "Live from London, it's Saturday Night!

• Production: Lorne Michaels, the creator of the US version, will serve as an executive producer.

• Talent: The show aims to feature a "star-studded lineup of hosts" and a cast composed of "the funniest British comedians around."

• Format: It will retain the live, fast-paced style, mixing satirical sketches, monologues, guest hosts, and musical guests.

A New Era of British Sketch Comedy

For decades, "Saturday Night Live" has been a launchpad for countless comedic talents in the United States, including Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Will Ferrell. Now, Sky is bringing this celebrated format to the UK and Ireland, with the aim of discovering and nurturing new British comedy stars.

Behind the Scenes

While Lorne Michaels will remain an executive producer, James Longden, formerly of "The Late Show with James Corden," has been appointed as the showrunner for "Saturday Night Live: UK." Details regarding the writing team, cast members, and specific hosts are expected to be announced in the coming months. Sky Studios CEO, Cecile Frot-Coutaz, expressed excitement about partnering with the SNL team to bring an all-British version to UK audiences, highlighting the show's unique position in television and culture.

A British Twist on a Classic

Sky executives have indicated that while the show will remain true to the spirit of the American original, it will also incorporate a distinctly "British" flavour. The goal is to capture the "chaos" and "noise" that have defined SNL's enduring appeal, adapted for a UK audience. This move is seen as a significant, albeit "courageous," undertaking given the differences in comedy culture and production budgets between the US and UK television industries. However, the potential to create new stars and spin-off successful shows makes it a compelling prospect for Sky.

Sources

• Everything We Know About Saturday Night Live: UK, Cinemablend.

• Can the legendary US comedy show make Brits laugh?, BBC.

• Saturday Night Live UK to launch on Sky in 2026, British Comedy Guide.

• Saturday Night Live UK - Sky Comedy Sketch Show, British Comedy Guide.