NBC is pulling out all the stops to honor 50 years of Saturday Night Live, and the celebration kicks off with a major music documentary directed by Oscar winner Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson and Emmy winner Oz Rodriguez.
Titled Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music, the three-hour special will delve into the untold stories behind the show’s iconic, groundbreaking musical performances, sketches, and celebrity cameos. Premiering January 27 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, the documentary will also stream on Peacock the following day.
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With over 50 interviews featuring legendary artists such as Bad Bunny, Miley Cyrus, Billie Eilish, Dave Grohl, Olivia Rodrigo, and Jack White, as well as insights from SNL creator Lorne Michaels and notable cast members like Eddie Murphy, Maya Rudolph, and Kenan Thompson, the film promises an in-depth look at the cultural impact of SNL’s music over the decades.
“Everyone knows the most famous SNL appearances, whether it’s Elvis Costello, Prince, or the Beastie Boys, but they’re the tip of a huge iceberg,” Questlove shared. “Going through the archives felt like stepping into a time machine. I’m thrilled to share this journey with everyone.”
The special, produced by Two One Five Entertainment, RadicalMedia, and Broadway Video, is part of NBC’s extensive programming celebrating SNL’s golden anniversary. Additional events include a four-part docuseries, SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night, premiering January 16, and a live primetime special airing February 16.
Saturday Night Live has long been a stage for unforgettable musical moments, from Sinéad O’Connor’s headline-making protest to Nirvana’s defiant performances. Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music is set to chronicle these defining moments while offering new perspectives from the artists, cast, and creatives who brought them to life.
Mark your calendars—this is one celebration you won’t want to miss.