SNL is heading to the UK with an all-British cast for new series
Sky officially announced on Thursday that a UK version of 'Saturday Night Live' is in the works, set to premiere in 2026 with an all-British cast.
That's right — "Live from across the pond, it's Saturday night!"
The London-based show will mirror the original's legendary format: live sketches, chaotic improv, celebrity hosts, and musical guests — just now with more tea, accents, and probably at least one sketch about queueing politely.
Legendary SNL creator Lorne Michaels (who, in case you're wondering, is still not planning to retire at age 80) will executive produce the series alongside Broadway Video and Universal Television Alternative Studio's UK division.
No pressure, right?
Sky Studios CEO Cécile Frot-Coutaz said in a press release:
"For over 50 years 'Saturday Night Live' has held a unique position in TV and in our collective culture, reflecting and creating the global conversation all under the masterful comedic guidance of Lorne Michaels."
"The show has discovered and nurtured countless comedy and musical talents over the years and 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 – all live from London on Saturday night."
SNL first hit American TV screens on October 11, 1975 and is now celebrating its 50th season — half a century of iconic sketches, presidential impressions, and enough celebrity cameos to fill Wembley Stadium.
Over the years, it helped launch careers of comedy royalty like Jimmy Fallon, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, Chris Rock, Will Ferrell, and so many others.
Michaels recently told The Hollywood Reporter he's in it for the long haul, reassuring fans he has "no plans to leave" the US show anytime soon.
This isn't the first time SNL has crossed borders — previous (and short-lived) versions have aired in Japan, Italy, and China.
Fun fact: South Korea's take on SNL is still running strong.
And if this sounds slightly familiar to British audiences, it's because Channel 4 had a show called 'Saturday Live' from 1985 to 1988, with a brief revival on ITV in 1996.
That series featured an impressive lineup, including Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Ben Elton, Chris Barrie, Julian Clary, Tracey Ullman, Craig Ferguson, Josie Lawrence, and Rik Mayall. Basically, a who's who of British comedy legends.
The real question is: Will Brits roast their politicians even harder than Americans do? Given the state of things... safe bet.
Stay tuned for the chaos — because in 2026, Saturday nights in London are about to get seriously loud.
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