What's Happening?
Saturday Night Live UK has officially announced its top creative team ahead of its 2026 launch on Sky. Daran Jonno Johnson, known for his work on Disney+ series Wedding Season, has been appointed as head writer. Liz Clare, an experienced live TV director,
will serve as series director. James Longman, former executive producer of The Late Late Show with James Corden, will lead the production as the series' lead producer. The UK version of SNL will be produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio’s UK production team and Broadway Video for Sky and Now. The series aims to bring the iconic sketch comedy format to London, tapping into the vibrant UK comedy scene.
Why It's Important?
The launch of Saturday Night Live UK represents a significant expansion of the iconic American sketch comedy show into international markets. This move could potentially invigorate the UK comedy scene by providing a platform for local talent and fostering cross-cultural comedic exchanges. The involvement of experienced creatives like Johnson, Clare, and Longman suggests a strong commitment to maintaining the high standards set by the original SNL. This development may also influence the production strategies of other international adaptations of popular US shows, highlighting the global appeal and adaptability of American entertainment formats.
What's Next?
The UK version of Saturday Night Live is set to premiere in 2026, with production taking place at a BBC Studioworks facility. Sky's executive director of unscripted originals, Phil Edgar-Jones, has expressed a desire for the show to bring 'chaos' and 'noise' to the screen, capturing the intimacy of the NBC version. As the launch date approaches, Sky talent scouts are actively seeking the next generation of comedy stars, particularly at events like the Edinburgh Fringe. The success of SNL UK could pave the way for further international adaptations and collaborations in the entertainment industry.
