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 adaptation of the iconic American sketch show, Saturday Night Live, will premiere in 2026. The London-based series promises to capture the same live, fast-paced, and satirical spirit that has made the original a global phenomenon for over five decades, featuring a cast of top British comedic talent.

Key Takeaways

• A UK version of Saturday Night Live will launch on Sky in 2026.

• The show will be produced in London and executive produced by SNL creator Lorne Michaels.

• It aims to feature a repertory cast of British comedians, guest hosts, and musical guests.

• The format will mirror the live, sketch-comedy style of the long-running US show.

A New Era of Live Comedy

Sky is bringing NBC's legendary late-night comedy showcase, Saturday Night Live, to the UK and Ireland in 2026. The London-based series will follow the same live, fast-paced style that has made the show a cultural phenomenon. A star-studded line-up of hosts will take to the stage to declare, 'Live from London, it's Saturday Night!' in this brand-new edition of the programme.

The Legacy of SNL

For over 50 years, Saturday Night Live has been a significant force in television, launching the careers of countless comedy and musical stars, including Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Will Ferrell. The show's creator, Lorne Michaels, will serve as an executive producer for the UK version, ensuring the continuation of its distinctive format. Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios, expressed excitement about partnering with Michaels and the SNL team to bring an all-British version to UK audiences.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the US version boasts a significant budget and a long-established comedy heritage, the UK adaptation faces the challenge of carving out its own identity within the British comedy landscape. Experts note differences in comedic traditions between the US and UK, suggesting that the UK version will need to feel authentically British rather than a mere imitation. Previous attempts at translating US late-night shows to the UK have had mixed success, but the potential to develop new talent and create a long-running hit is a significant draw for broadcasters like Sky. More details regarding the cast, hosts, musical guests, and the official premiere date are expected to be announced in the coming months.

Sources

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

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

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