Saturday Night Live UK Announces Star-Studded Host Lineup for Launch
US comedian Tina Fey has been confirmed as the host for the highly anticipated first episode of Saturday Night Live UK, set to premiere on March 21, 2026. The announcement also reveals that actors Jamie Dornan and Riz Ahmed will host the subsequent two episodes, marking a significant moment for British television as the iconic sketch show expands across the Atlantic.
Host Schedule and Musical Guests Revealed
The launch episode on March 21 will feature Fey, 55, a former head writer and lead cast member of the US version, alongside musical guests Wet Leg, the indie band from the Isle of Wight. On March 28, Northern Irish actor Jamie Dornan, 43, known for Fifty Shades of Grey, will take the helm with Brit Award-winning rock band Wolf Alice performing. The third episode on April 4 will be hosted by Riz Ahmed, also 43, star of Four Lions, with 2000s indie stalwarts Kasabian as the musical act.
Broadcast Details and Cast Information
SNL UK will be broadcast live from London every Saturday night at 10pm on Sky, with each 75-minute episode available on catch-up and streaming service Now. The show's inaugural cast includes:
- Hammed Animashaun
- Ayoade Bamgboye
- Larry Dean
- Celeste Dring
- George Fouracres
- Ania Magliano
- Annabel Marlow
- Al Nash
- Jack Shep
- Emma Sidi
- Paddy Young
Writers Team and Production Insights
The writers for the UK edition have been assembled, with Charlie Skelton, known for 8 Out of 10 Cats, serving as head writer for the satirical news segment, The Weekend Update. He is joined by a talented team including Al Roberts, Bella Hull, Celya AB, Chris Cantrill, Grainne Maguire, Humphrey Ker, and James Farmer. Jonno Johnson, the series' head writer, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "The number of funny, talented writers we have got to work on SNL UK is ludicrous. All of them make me giddy to come to work each day."
Legacy and Anticipation
The US version of Saturday Night Live has been running since 1975, launching careers of stars like Fey, Bill Murray, and Eddie Murphy. This UK adaptation aims to capture the same comedic spirit while showcasing British talent. With a mix of seasoned professionals and newcomers, the show promises to deliver fresh sketches and satirical commentary, building excitement among fans eager to see how the format translates in a new cultural context.
