Dan Aykroyd, a prominent figure in the original cast of Saturday Night Live, revealed his decision to skip the SNL50 Anniversary Special earlier this year in a recent statement. Despite his absence from the milestone celebration, Aykroyd expressed his deep appreciation for the show and his desire to enjoy the event from the comfort of his own home.
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Speaking to Entertainment Weekly at Comic-Con 2025, Aykroyd, who starred in the first season of SNL from 1975 to 1976, shared his reasons for missing the special. He mentioned that he wanted to immerse himself in the show as a fan and enjoy the experience with his family, all while savouring his own popcorn in a nostalgic setting.
As a member of the original SNL cast, which included iconic comedians like John Belushi, Chevy Chase, and Gilda Radner, Aykroyd’s absence was noticeable during the anniversary celebrations earlier this year. Despite being the only surviving original cast member who did not attend the special, he expressed his admiration for the current cast members and their performances on the show.
The SNL50 Anniversary Special was marked by star-studded appearances and memorable moments, with Aykroyd choosing to watch the event in its entirety from his home. Notably, fellow original cast members Chevy Chase and Jane Curtin were present at the celebration, along with Laraine Newman and Garrett Morris, who participated in sketches paying tribute to the show’s rich history.
During the anniversary special, touching tributes were made to cast members who have since passed away, such as John Belushi and Gilda Radner. The emotional reunion of Curtin and Newman, who held up a photo of Radner during the show’s goodbyes, highlighted the enduring bond between the original SNL cast members.
The event featured a range of performances and segments, including musical guests like Paul Simon, Miley Cyrus, and Paul McCartney. As the show celebrated its 50th year on air, familiar faces graced the stage, delivering memorable moments and heartfelt speeches that encapsulated the spirit of Saturday Night Live.
Reflecting on the significance of the milestone special, Aykroyd took to X to express his pride and joy in witnessing the celebration from his home. Despite not being physically present at the event, he conveyed his support and admiration for the show’s enduring legacy and the talented individuals who have contributed to its success over the years.
As Saturday Night Live gears up for its 51st season this fall, fans can look forward to more iconic sketches, guest appearances, and comedic moments that have made the show a beloved cultural institution. In the meantime, both Saturday Night Live and the SNL50 Anniversary Special are available for streaming on Peacock, allowing viewers to relive the magic of the legendary sketch comedy series.