For five decades, Saturday Night Live has shaped pop culture, launched comedy icons, and delivered legendary musical performances. To celebrate this milestone, SNL50: The Homecoming Concert transformed Radio City Music Hall into the ultimate gathering of comedy and music legends. With an electrifying lineup featuring Lady Gaga, Will Ferrell, Lauryn Hill, Cher, and more, the event wasn’t just a tribute to SNL’s musical legacy—it was a cultural moment that rivaled the biggest award shows.
The energy inside the historic venue was electric. The audience wasn’t just packed with fans but a who’s who of Hollywood, including Robert De Niro, Jason Momoa, Anya Taylor-Joy, Alec Baldwin, Amy Schumer, Tom Hanks, and Scarlett Johansson. Offstage, the night buzzed with excitement. James Franco and Seth Rogen, once close friends, narrowly avoided an awkward encounter, while Jon Hamm broke into an impromptu dance near the concession stands. Adam Sandler, Tiffany Haddish, and Meryl Streep were among the A-listers spotted catching up and celebrating.
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Music has always played a pivotal role in SNL’s history, and the night’s performances honored that legacy with unforgettable moments. Miley Cyrus kicked things off with Flowers before paying tribute to Queen with Crazy Little Thing Called Love. At one point, noticing the reserved crowd, she quipped, “Are y’all doing that Grammys thing where you guys are famous and don’t sing along?” prompting Adam Sandler to stand up and get the audience moving.
"/>Other standout performances included Eddie Vedder honoring Tom Petty with The Waiting, Post Malone and Nirvana (introduced as Post Nirvana) performing Smells Like Teen Spirit, Brandi Carlile receiving a standing ovation for The Joke, and Jelly Roll paying tribute to Johnny Cash. The Roots, led by Questlove, served as the house band, backing legends like Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and the B-52s.
Lady Gaga and Andy Samberg perform during SNL50 on Feb. 14, 2025. Photo: Theo Wargo/Peacock
The night wasn’t just about music—it was about SNL’s signature fusion of comedy and musical brilliance. Lady Gaga’s attempt to sing Shallow was hilariously interrupted by Andy Samberg, leading to a surprise Lonely Island medley. Gaga stepped in for Justin Timberlake on D** in a Box*, Bad Bunny joined for I Just Had Sex, and T-Pain made a surprise appearance for I’m on a Boat.
Other comedic musical highlights included Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer, as their iconic music teacher characters Bobbi and Marty Culp, delivering an out-of-touch yet hilarious rendition of Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us. Tracy Morgan revived his Astronaut Jones theme song, while Bill Murray made a nostalgic return as Nick the Lounge Singer.
A moment of pure joy came when Cher took the stage with If I Could Turn Back Time, electrifying the crowd. The Backstreet Boys followed, with Jerry Seinfeld and other stars singing along to every word of I Want It That Way. Beyond the stage, the event was a rare opportunity for celebrities to reconnect. Meryl Streep, Tina Fey, and Nia Vardalos were spotted in deep conversation, while Colin Jost and Scarlett Johansson lingered to chat with friends.
Cher performs at ‘SNL50: The Homecoming Concert’ at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on Feb. 14, 2025. Photo: Peacock
As the night drew to a close, Jack White brought the house down with Seven Nation Army, leaving no doubt that this was more than just a concert—it was a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of SNL’s five decades of brilliance.
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