Saturday Night Live UK premiered on Sky on Saturday night, 50 years after its US counterpart launched on NBC. The debut featured Tina Fey as guest host and musical act Wet Leg, alongside a cast of 12 British and Irish comedians. The show is set to air on Peacock in the US on Sunday evening, with Jamie Dornan and Riz Ahmed confirmed as hosts for episodes two and three.
Critical reception has been mixed but leans positive. The Telegraph awarded the show 4/5 stars, calling it a 'shockingly competent spin-off' and noting that predictions of a transatlantic failure were unfounded. The Financial Times agreed, describing the debut as 'inventive and sharp' with close-to-the-bone humour. The Guardian gave 3/5 stars, remarking that 'it didn't fail and it could have been a lot worse', while The Independent also gave 3/5, praising a 'bang-on Princess Di impression' and the show's willingness to push boundaries.
However, not all reviews were favourable. Deadline's Baz Bamigboye called it 'a laughter-free yawn', criticising the cold open featuring Keir Starmer and Donald Trump. The Times of London said 'Britain is funny but this isn't yet', describing the episode as 'four parts American gurning, one part Princess Diana'. Viewers on social media also complained about fake laughter and the show's unnatural feel.
Despite the scepticism surrounding the show's launch, many critics see potential. Latenighter noted that while the debut didn't feel entirely new, it 'stuck the landing' with a promising cast and strong guest host. The Independent advised against judging the show on its first episode alone, as chemistry between the cast needs time to develop.
