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UK Set to Launch Its Own Saturday Night Live in 2026

  • Comedy in Your Eye
  • 8 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Sky has announced plans to launch a British version of the iconic late-night comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL) in 2026. This marks a significant moment in UK television, as it will be the first time the show is produced outside the United States. With Lorne Michaels, the original creator, on board as executive producer, expectations are high for this new venture.

Key Takeaways

  • Launch Date: The UK version of SNL is set to premiere in 2026.

  • Production Team: Lorne Michaels will serve as executive producer, ensuring the show retains its original charm.

  • Format: The show will feature a live, fast-paced style with a rotating cast of British comedians and celebrity hosts.

  • Location: Filming will take place in London, bringing a local flavour to the iconic format.

A New Era for British Comedy

The announcement comes after numerous attempts to replicate the success of SNL in the UK, with previous shows like Saturday Live and The 11 O'Clock Show failing to capture the same audience. Sky's new version aims to harness the essence of the original while infusing it with British humour.

Cécile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios, expressed excitement about the project, stating, "For over 50 years, Saturday Night Live has held a unique position in TV and in our collective culture. We are thrilled to be partnering with Lorne and the SNL team to bring an all-British version of the show to UK audiences next year."

What to Expect

The UK version of SNL will follow a similar format to its American counterpart, which has been a launching pad for many famous comedians. Here’s what viewers can look forward to:

  1. Live Broadcasts: The show will air live, maintaining the spontaneous feel that fans love.

  2. Celebrity Hosts: Each episode will feature a different celebrity host, similar to the US version.

  3. Musical Guests: Expect a variety of musical performances from popular artists.

  4. Sketch Comedy: The show will include a mix of satirical sketches and monologues, reflecting current events and cultural trends.

Challenges Ahead

While the excitement builds, there are challenges to consider. Previous attempts to create a successful live comedy show in the UK have struggled, often due to budget constraints and the competitive nature of the television landscape. The success of this new venture will depend on attracting top talent and maintaining high production values.

Conclusion

As anticipation grows for the UK version of Saturday Night Live, fans are eager to see how British comedians will interpret the beloved format. With Lorne Michaels at the helm, there is hope that this adaptation will not only entertain but also resonate with audiences across the UK and Ireland. More details regarding the cast, hosts, and premiere date are expected to be announced in the coming months, setting the stage for a new chapter in British comedy history.

Sources

  • Jon Richardson ISN'T quitting comedy : News 2025 : Chortle : The UK Comedy Guide, Chortle.

  • Sky announces ‘star-studded’ UK version of Saturday Night Live | Saturday Night Live, The Guardian.

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

  • Saturday Night Live to be broadcast ‘live from London’ in new 2026 UK series, The Independent.

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