The 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live was marked with performances and tributes from both past legends and contemporary stars, celebrating the show's remarkable legacy.
**SNL Celebrates 50 Years with Star-Studded Anniversary Special**

**SNL Celebrates 50 Years with Star-Studded Anniversary Special**
A dazzling three-hour broadcast brings together iconic stars and memorable moments from the long-running comedy show.
In a spectacular celebration of five decades of humor and memorable moments, Saturday Night Live (SNL) aired a three-hour special live from Studio 8H in New York on Sunday. The show, which debuted in October 1975, has been a launchpad for comedic talent, including the likes of Eddie Murphy and Bill Murray.
Kickstarting the event was rising star Sabrina Carpenter, who teamed up with music legend Paul Simon to perform a heartfelt rendition of "Homeward Bound," a hit they humorously noted predates both Carpenter and her parents. The surprise guest lineup also included an unexpected reunion of Nirvana with Post Malone, who helped the band deliver a powerful performance of "Smells Like Teen Spirit," evoking nostalgia for the late Kurt Cobain.
SNL's signature blend of humor and current events also resonated, with Ryan Reynolds referencing his wife Blake Lively's legal woes in a playful Q&A session with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. Meanwhile, Aubrey Plaza, making her first public appearance following the loss of her husband, honored his memory with a subtle nod during her introduction for a musical act.
In a highlight that tickled the audience's nostalgia, Meryl Streep delivered an impressive performance that drew on her past roles, asserting her comedic prowess as she joked about her character from "The Devil Wears Prada." Original cast member Garrett Morris also returned, reminding fans of the show's rich history.
Viewers were treated to a reminder of viral favorites, including beloved character Domingo, alongside special appearances by stars like Kim Kardashian, who rekindled memories from her previous stint on SNL. Adam Sandler, wrapped in nostalgia, paid tribute to the show's many notable cast members in a touching musical segment.
Completing the night, Tom Hanks led an uproarious tribute to sketches that perhaps should not have aged well, humorously provoking the audience on their past laughs.
SNL's 50th anniversary special celebrated the vibrant spirit of the show, uniting generations of comedy lovers through laughter and unforgettable performances.