‘SNL50’ Draws 14.8 Million Viewers, Highest in Five Years

The “SNL50” anniversary special attracted 14.8 million viewers on NBC and Peacock, marking NBC’s biggest primetime entertainment show in five years. It scored high ratings, particularly among adults 18-49, and featured performances from notable stars, reminiscing over the show’s iconic sketches. The viewership, while impressive, showcased a decline from previous anniversaries, reflecting changes in viewer habits.

The celebration for the 50th anniversary of “Saturday Night Live” was a stellar success, drawing a staggering 14.8 million viewers across NBC and Peacock. This impressive audience marks NBC’s most-watched primetime entertainment broadcast in five years, surpassing the 2020 Golden Globes, which captivated 18.33 million viewers. This remarkable turnout positions the special as the second-largest non-sports primetime show of the 2024-25 season, trailing only the Grammy Awards, which attracted 15.4 million earlier this year.

Compared to regular “SNL” episodes, which typically attract around 4.9 million, this celebration tripled the same-day season average. In the coveted adults 18-49 demographic, “SNL50” achieved a commendable 2.53 rating, equating to approximately 3.39 million individuals in that age range, marking a five-year peak for NBC in primetime, excluding sports. Additionally, a red carpet pre-show drew an impressive average of 6.5 million viewers across NBC, E!, and Peacock.

The special featured beloved sketch reprises from cast members past and present, heartfelt musical tributes from Adam Sandler, and exceptional performances by stars including Paul Simon, Miley Cyrus, Lil Wayne, and Paul McCartney. A decade earlier, the 40th anniversary of “SNL” attracted an eye-popping 23.1 million viewers on NBC, a testament to the changing media landscape as viewership habits shift away from linear TV. The previous milestone show was only 1.7 million shy of that year’s Grammys, while this year’s special was about 600,000 viewers short.

This jubilee not only honored the legacy of “SNL” but also captivated audiences with its nostalgic offerings and star-studded lineup. The return of classic sketches, combined with heartfelt performances, invited fans to reminisce about the show’s enduring impact on comedy and pop culture. While the viewership may have adjusted over the years, the magic of “Saturday Night Live” remains a cherished part of television’s tapestry.

The 50th anniversary celebration of “Saturday Night Live” captivated audiences with a remarkable turnout, drawing 14.8 million viewers, making it NBC’s top primetime entertainment show in recent years. Featuring beloved sketches and star performances, the special celebrated the show’s legacy amid changing media landscapes. With significant ratings in key demographics, this anniversary was a fitting tribute to a beloved comedic institution.

Original Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com