Full Breakdown
Tina Fey, Jamie Dornan, and Riz Ahmed to Host Inaugural Episodes of Saturday Night Live UK
3/17/2026, 7:33:12 AM
Launch Details and Hosts
Sky TV has announced the launch of Saturday Night Live UK, set to premiere on March 21, 2024. Tina Fey, renowned for her influential role as a head writer and cast member on the U.S. version of SNL, will host the inaugural episode. She will be joined by the Isle of Wight indie band Wet Leg as the first musical guest. Following Fey, Jamie Dornan will host the second episode on March 28, accompanied by the BRIT Award-winning band Wolf Alice. Riz Ahmed will take the stage on April 4, with rock band Kasabian performing.
Each episode of SNL UK will air at 10 p.m. local time on Sky One and will be available for streaming on Now, with next-day access on Peacock in the U.S. The episodes will run for 75 minutes, slightly shorter than the 90-minute format of the U.S. version.
Key Figures and Production Team
Tina Fey joined SNL as a writer in 1997, becoming the first female head writer two years later. She was a cast member until 2006, when she left to create and star in the acclaimed series 30 Rock. Jamie Dornan is known for his roles in The Tourist and the Fifty Shades of Grey films, while Riz Ahmed has garnered attention for his performances in The Night Of and the upcoming series Bait.
The production team for SNL UK includes Lorne Michaels as executive producer, James Longman as lead producer, Liz Clare as director, and Daran Jonno Johnson as head writer. The cast features Hammed Animashaun, Ayoade Bamgboye, Larry Dean, Celeste Dring, George Fouracres, Ania Magliano, Annabel Marlow, Al Nash, Jack Shep, Emma Sidi, and Paddy Young.
Why It Matters
The launch of SNL UK marks a significant expansion of the SNL franchise, bringing the iconic sketch comedy format to a British audience. This adaptation aims to blend the unique comedic styles of the U.K. with the established format of SNL, potentially influencing the landscape of British television comedy.
Official Statements
Sky TV stated, "Saturday Night Live UK today announces that Tina Fey... will host the launch episode." The network emphasized the show's commitment to showcasing a diverse range of talent, both in hosting and musical performances.
Criticism & Opposition
While the announcement has been met with excitement, some critics have raised concerns about the choice of Tina Fey as the inaugural host, noting that her American background may not resonate with all segments of the U.K. audience. There are questions regarding how the show will adapt its humor to fit British sensibilities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Saturday Night Live UK today announces that Tina Fey, celebrated for her era defining years as head writer and cast member on the US version, will host the launch episode of SNL UK on 21 March.” — Sky TV
- “Saturday Night Live UK today announces that Tina Fey, celebrated for her era defining years as head writer and cast member on the US version, will host the launch episode of SNL UK on 21 March.” — Sky TV
The introduction of SNL UK is poised to create a new platform for comedy in the U.K., with a blend of familiar and fresh talent leading the charge.
