SNL UK: Saturday Night Live to get a British version

American pop culture institution Saturday Night Live announced that it plans to launch a British version of the US sketch comedy show that is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

The UK version, produced with Sky Studios, will have a British cast of comedians - to be announced later - and follow the same format with famous guest hosts and star musical acts.

The long-established show is a mix of political satire, skits, fake commercials, comic music videos and its regular “Weekend Update” spoof on the news. It also regularly roasts the powerful. Donald Trump and Elon Musk have been skewered lately, and both have previously hosted the 90-minute show.

SNL creator Lorne Michaels will be the executive producer of Saturday Night Live UK, while staying in the same role with the show on NBC in New York.

“For over 50 years Saturday Night Live has held a unique position in TV and in our collective culture, reflecting and creating the global conversation, all under the masterful comedic guidance of Lorne Michaels,” said Cecile Frot-Coutaz, chief executive of Sky Studios.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Lorne and the SNL team to bring an all-British version of the show to UK audiences next year - all live from London on Saturday night.”

SNL has launched the careers of many comedians and actors, including Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Mike Myers, Tina Fey, Will Ferrell, Kristen Wiig, Kenan Thompson and Kate McKinnon.

Efforts to launch SNL in other countries, such as France, Japan and Italy, have typically been short-lived. A version of the show remains on the air in South Korea.

Saturday Night Live UK will be broadcast in 2026. Details about the UK version's cast, hosts, and premiere will be announced in the coming months.