Saturday Night Live UK met a sceptical crowd – but has it won them over?
Saturday Night Live UK met a sceptical crowd – but has it won them over?
Saturday Night Live UK met a sceptical – Ahead of its debut, the UK iteration of Saturday Night Live faced questions about its ability to captivate a British audience. Critics and viewers alike wondered if the iconic US sketch-comedy show, now in its 50th year, could adapt its style to resonate with local humor sensibilities. As the eight-week series concludes, the feedback from fans and commentators reveals a mixed but largely positive reception. While the show has certainly managed to elicit laughter, its success is nuanced, marked by both triumphs and moments of doubt.
The Final Episode: A Strong Finish
The concluding installment, hosted by Ncuti Gatwa, the star of Sex Education and Doctor Who, stood out as one of the most polished entries of the season. This episode showcased a marked improvement in the quality of sketches, proving that the show has steadily matured since its launch. The focus on British cultural touchstones, including appearances by Louis Theroux, Martin Lewis, and the retro icon Mr Blobby, underscored the series’ effort to carve its own identity rather than simply mimic the US format. The episode also highlighted the strength of its topical humor, with a satirical cold open that convincingly portrayed UK political figures such as Sir Keir Starmer, Wes Streeting, Andy Burnham, Angela Rayner, and Liz Truss.
Among the standout moments was the Weekend Update segment, which consistently delivered sharp, witty commentary throughout the series. The cast, comprising a mix of established and emerging comedians, has demonstrated growing synergy, allowing for more fluid and inventive performances. Each member has embraced their unique comedic voice, whether through parody, musical numbers, or absurd scenarios. This diversity has helped the show avoid a one-size-fits-all approach, giving it a more dynamic and relatable feel.
Social Media Success and Critical Praise
Despite the skepticism, SNL UK has found a strong foothold on platforms like Twitter and Instagram. According to Deadline analysis, the series amassed 86 million views across its official accounts in just one month, a figure that rivals the reach of its US counterpart. TV critic Natalie Jamieson, whose insights have been pivotal in evaluating the show’s trajectory, notes that its viral potential is “comparable” to the original, suggesting a growing audience that engages with its content beyond traditional broadcast channels. She emphasizes that the show’s ability to embrace unorthodox humor has been a key factor in its appeal, citing a Traitors parody featuring a man in a giant crab costume as a prime example.
Season one’s cast includes Annabel Marlow, Ayode Bamgboye, Hammed Animashaun, Larry Dean, Celeste Dring, George Fouracres, Ania Magliano, Al Nash, Jack Shep, Emma Sidi, and Paddy Young. These performers, many of whom are relatively new to the spotlight, have brought a fresh energy to the series, proving that their individual talents can thrive within the format. Jamieson describes them as “fascinating and joyful,” highlighting their collective ability to push boundaries while maintaining the show’s comedic core.
Fans Weigh In: Mixed Reactions and Rising Expectations
While the show has earned praise, it has not been without its challenges. Olivia Goldsbury, a 19-year-old who has followed the US version for five years, admits she initially preferred its British counterpart. “You can tell the cast and writers are seasoned in comedy,” she says, pointing to the influence of Jamie Demetriou, the show’s consultant and creator of Stath Lets Flats. Goldsbury singles out George Fouracres as her standout performer, praising his ability to deliver “Keir Starmer impressions that hit all the right notes.” She recalls a sketch titled “What kind of Irish is your granddad?” as one that lingered in her mind for weeks, a testament to its clever writing and timing.
Cal Clayton, a 20-year-old fan, echoes similar sentiments, commending the production team for selecting “beloved British and Irish talent” as hosts. He adds that the show’s reliance on sketch comedy has meant some sketches fall short, but this is not unique to the UK version. “We’re in year 51 of the US version, and it’s still hit-or-miss,” he says. While acknowledging the uneven quality, Clayton believes the series has improved steadily, with pre-taped sketches often outperforming live ones. The Weekend Update segment, in particular, has been a consistent source of humor, with the hosts’ chemistry proving a highlight.
For Jamieson, the show’s evolution is evident. She mentions Jamie Dornan’s rugby-themed sketch, where the actor goes to extreme lengths to injure himself, as a memorable moment. The blend of physical comedy and sharp writing in such sketches has helped the UK version establish its own rhythm. Meanwhile, the writers’ contributions—drawn from notable names like Charlie Skelton (8 Out of 10 Cats), Louis Waymouth (The Late Late Show with James Corden), and Bella Hull (Have I Got News For You)—have been crucial in shaping the show’s voice. Their ability to balance satire with cultural relevance has kept the content fresh and engaging.
Renewal and Future Prospects
Positive reception has translated into tangible results. Sky’s Phil Edgar Jones, head of unscripted content, expressed delight with the series’ impact, confirming its renewal for a second season. The upcoming run will feature 12 episodes, scheduled to air between autumn 2026 and early 2027. This decision reflects confidence in the show’s potential to build a lasting legacy in the UK comedy landscape.
Executive producer Lorne Michaels, the visionary behind the original US format, has also praised the UK adaptation. “It keeps getting better every week,” he says, underscoring the show’s ability to refine its approach over time. For Jamieson, the journey has been rewarding, with moments like the “Great Big Crab Man” spoof—a Traitors parody—standing out for their creativity and humor. These sketches, she argues, prove that the UK version is not just a clone but a distinct entity with its own charm.
The series’ success also lies in its ability to address the gap left by dwindling live comedy options on weekends. With its mix of sketch comedy, music, and political satire, SNL UK has become a go-to destination for audiences seeking variety and wit. While perfection remains elusive, the show has managed to cultivate a loyal following, with fans appreciating its bold experiments and cultural nods. As it moves forward, the challenge will be to sustain this momentum, ensuring that the humor remains as sharp and unpredictable as the cast itself.
Ultimately, Saturday Night Live UK has proven that it can entertain a skeptical crowd, even if not every sketch is a masterpiece. The show’s ability to evolve, adapt, and connect with its audience has set it apart as a meaningful addition to British television. With a talented cast, a growing fanbase, and a clear path to improvement, it seems the show has not only won over some viewers but also laid the groundwork for a more enduring presence in the UK comedy scene.