NBCUniversal is prepared to take its flagship television property, “Saturday Night Live,” even further into the culture wars. In 2024, a brand new spinoff production, specifically designed for the U.K. Owner of “Saturday Night Live,” Sky has partnered with Broadway Video and Universal Television Alternative Studio’s U.K. production arm. Jointly, they will create this thrilling new iteration to boot! Lorne Michaels, the original executive producer of the U.S. version, will follow the franchise to the U.K., returning to oversee that version as well.
Picture this — the brand-new show, which will air live from London every Saturday night, Look forward to a celebrity-packed lineup of hosts and the same sharp wit and humor that’s made the longtime original a public television favorite for generations! “The show has discovered and nurtured countless comedy and musical talents over the years,” stated Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios.
Like “Saturday Night Live,” which just recently aired its 50th anniversary in February, an impressive feat for a show that has jumpstarted the comedy careers of dozens of famous faces, including icons like Steve Martin, Bill Murray and Eddie Murphy. This new U.K. adaptation hopes to capture the freewheeling heart of that legacy. At the same time, it will introduce a plugged in young wave of British talent to Stateside audiences.
It’s a formula that’s worked well wherever SNL has been adapted with varying success around the world. Most famously, Japan created its own version of that show, and South Korea still broadcasts its own localized copy. This new venture is a clear indication of NBCUniversal’s dedication to exporting the meaningful “SNL” experience to vibrant, international markets.
Comcast and NBCUniversal’s partnership with Sky marks the beginning of an exhilarating global creative alliance. The nature of this new strategic partnership focuses on integrating both organizations’ strengths in television production and television distribution. The new show showcases the U.K.’s sprawling and vibrant comedy scene. It is its primary goal to produce a fun and fascinating experience that connects with audiences internationally and in their own backyard.
Fans have had a great deal of focus on the new spinoff. They’re equally excited to learn how the U.K. version will take its own turn on the cherished format. In addition, the live production format will bring a jolt of high-impact excitement each weekend to Saturday nights. One thing audiences can always look forward to is an amazing combination of imagination, entertainment and hilarious creativity!