After wrapping up its 50th anniversary season, many are curious about the future of Saturday Night Live (SNL). It’s a question that often comes up, especially when some critics seem eager to write the show’s obituary. This uncertainty looms over a series that changes week by week, pushing boundaries and reinventing itself. Though the finale didn’t provide clear answers, it left viewers pondering what’s next.
During its recent season finale, which featured Scarlett Johansson as host, fans speculated that long-time anchors Colin Jost and Michael Che might announce their departure. However, they didn’t, and the episode played out as usual. Jost did present Johansson with roses in a sweet moment, but the rumors of exits linger on.
What’s impressive is SNL’s viewership. According to NBC, it finished the season as the top broadcast show for viewers aged 18 to 49—a prime demographic for advertisers—from the information shared. The show averaged 8.2 million viewers weekly across platforms, proving that despite the challenges, SNL remains a formidable force in comedy.
Fans frequently engage in a guessing game about which cast members might leave. The speculations are intensified around Jost and Che, who have been the longest-running anchors of the iconic Weekend Update segment. If they choose to exit, it raises the big question: who could step into their shoes? One intriguing suggestion is Josh Johnson, a rising stand-up comedian known for his work on The Daily Show. He could bring fresh energy to the role, tapping into the younger audience that SNL aims to attract.
Alongside in-house changes, SNL occasionally finds itself at the center of real-world drama. For instance, cast member Sarah Sherman faced backlash on social media this season when her portrayal of Aimee Lou Wood in a sketch drew criticism for being “mean and unfunny.” This moment sparked conversations about the boundaries of comedy and its impact on public figures.
Controversies like this show that the line between satire and respect can be thin. Alongside jokes, unexpected moments unfold, such as when Ego Nwodim’s audience prompts went awry, leading to an impromptu curse shout. This blip became a talking point, illustrating that SNL can make headlines even outside its planned sketches.
Beyond comedic content, SNL’s legacy is monumental. Lorne Michaels, the showrunner, remains a significant figure at age 80, guiding the institution through changing times. There’s speculation about his future in the role, but for now, he continues to steer SNL successfully, aided by a talented team. The fabric of the show, filled with improvisation and timely commentary, keeps it relevant amid shifting entertainment landscapes.
The show has faced its share of challenges in addressing modern politics. Although SNL’s political sketches, especially those featuring James Austin Johnson’s impersonations of Donald Trump, have been well-received, the show still struggles to hit its mark consistently with political humor. Audiences may need to adjust expectations, allowing the cast the space to find fresh angles instead of expecting perfection every week.
Amidst the evolution of comedy in podcasts and social media, SNL asserts its place as a live comedy showcase. Its recent anniversary celebrations, which included a three-and-a-half-hour special and multiple spin-offs on its musical history, reminded viewers of its cultural significance. As demonstrated by planned international spin-offs, like a six-episode version set for the UK, SNL’s brand extends beyond American television, affirming its iconic status in comedy.
As SNL moves into its next chapter, the challenges and opportunities ahead will shape its legacy. Whether through fresh talent, evolving content, or navigating controversies, the show remains a fixture in the ever-changing landscape of entertainment.