‘Saturday Night Live’ Sets U.K. Edition, Launching on Sky in 2026

NBC’s comedy institution “Saturday Night Live” (“SNL”) is crossing the pond to launch a British edition in partnership with Sky.

The iconic late-night sketch show, which has been a cornerstone of American pop culture since 1975, will debut “Saturday Night Live U.K.” in 2026, bringing its signature mix of political satire, celebrity impersonations and musical performances to British and Irish audiences.

“SNL” mastermind Lorne Michaels, who created the original NBC series, will serve as executive producer for the U.K. adaptation while continuing to steer the American mothership. The London-based version will follow the same live format that has made “SNL” a cultural juggernaut for nearly five decades.

“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, CEO of Sky Studios and chief content officer at Sky. “The show has discovered and nurtured countless comedy and musical talents over the years and we are thrilled to be partnering with Lorne and the ‘SNL’ team to bring an all-British version of the show to U.K. audiences next year – all live from London on Saturday night.”

The series is being commissioned by Phil Edgar-Jones, executive director of Unscripted Originals at Sky, for Frot-Coutaz’s Sky Studios division.

The British iteration will be produced by Broadway Video, Michaels’ production company, in partnership with Universal Television Alternative Studio’s U.K. production team. While cast members, hosts and musical guests have yet to be revealed, Sky promises “a core cast of the funniest British comedians around.”

“Saturday Night Live U.K.” will be available on Sky Max and the streaming service Now when it premieres in 2026. Additional details about the show’s debut, including premiere date and talent lineup, will be revealed in coming months.

“SNL” has accrued more Emmy Awards than any other television program and has been a career launchpad for comedy legends including Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey and Will Ferrell. The show’s ability to launch careers and maintain cultural relevance across generations has made it one of television’s most enduring institutions.

Source: Variety