The state of SNL: a cautionary tale for its UK counterpart
A comedy sketch gone horribly wrong. That's the recent controversy surrounding Saturday Night Live (SNL), which has sparked a wave of criticism and condemnation. But how did a light-hearted comedy show take such a dark turn, and what does it mean for the upcoming UK version?
Let's dive into the recent sketch that has everyone talking. SNL, a long-running American comedy institution, has been a cultural staple for decades. However, its latest sketch, lampooning the Baftas controversy and seemingly mocking individuals with Tourette syndrome, has sparked an intense backlash. The sketch featured problematic celebrities using Tourette's as an excuse, leaving many viewers feeling horrified and offended.
SNL's Cultural Relevance: A Declining Trend
After 50 years on air, SNL's cultural relevance has been on a downward trajectory. While it once boasted innovative and acclaimed content, spearheaded by producer Lorne Michaels, its recent output has left much to be desired. The show has struggled to find breakout stars, and its political commentary has become stale and predictable.
The problem lies in SNL's political sensibility. The show has entrenched itself in a brand of liberalism that lacks creativity and humor. The 2016 election and the Donald Trump presidencies only exacerbated this issue, with SNL's weekly chiding of the president becoming a repetitive and unfunny routine. The post-election scene of Kate McKinnon singing "Hallelujah" in Hillary Clinton attire sums up the show's political malaise perfectly.
Controversial Sketches and Questionable Choices
SNL's recent controversies don't end there. The sketch about Tourette's syndrome is just one example of the show's regressive and ableist content. Last year, a sketch mocking Aimee Lou Wood's teeth was met with criticism, with Wood herself calling it "mean and unfunny." Additionally, SNL's willingness to host controversial figures like Trump and Elon Musk, and their decision to bring back Shane Gillis despite his racist jokes, has raised eyebrows and sparked debates.
Revitalization Efforts: A Mixed Bag
In an attempt to revitalize itself, SNL has turned to online content creators, bringing on board performers like Sarah Sherman, Jane Wickline, and the trio Please Don't Destroy. These additions have brought a fresh perspective and a much-needed injection of humor. The modern online era has allowed SNL to showcase its best sketches individually, reaching a wider audience without forcing viewers to sit through entire episodes.
However, these efforts are not enough to mask the undeniable slump the show has been in. SNL's output has become increasingly irrelevant and lacking in substance.
SNL UK: A New Beginning?
With the launch of SNL UK just around the corner, the question arises: can the UK version learn from its American counterpart's mistakes and create a successful, relevant show?
SNL UK seems to be taking the right approach by casting young, largely unknown actors, relying on the SNL brand and celebrity guest hosts as selling points. This strategy aims to avoid the pitfalls of an all-star UK TV comedy cast, which could have resulted in an overly familiar and uninspired show.
A Call for Sensitivity and Relevance
For SNL UK to succeed, it must demonstrate a keen sense of tone and sensitivity. The new series must avoid the blithe cruelty and toothless irrelevance that have plagued SNL in recent years. It's a fine line to tread, but one that is crucial for the show's survival.
Will SNL UK rise to the challenge and create a fresh, relevant comedy experience? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the stakes are high, and the show's future hangs in the balance.
"Saturday Night Live UK" premieres on Sky One and NOW on March 21, 2026. Will it be a hit or a miss? The answer awaits us on that fateful Saturday night.
