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The new British iteration of the long-running American comedy sketch show launched this Saturday night, marking the arrival of Saturday Night Live UK. Much effort and significant investment are evident upon entering the UK studios where the show is produced, from the bustling costume and wig departments to the expansive pop-up sets constructed around the central stage. This version seeks to capture the essence of the original US show—which has amassed a devoted following over its 50-plus year history—while aiming to establish its own foothold with British audiences.
The cast, comprised of a dozen British comedians and writers, faces the challenge of living up to the high expectations set by the original. Annabel Marlow, a member of the ensemble, emphasizes that the show does not attempt to cater solely to British sensibilities but rather focuses on writing what the team genuinely finds funny. She adds, “We’re basically writing what we all find really funny,” acknowledging that some local references will naturally resonate with the UK audience. Alongside Marlow, known for her musical comedy background and previous stage roles, is Ayoade Bamgboye, a stand-up comedian and Edinburgh Comedy Award winner, who describes creating sketches with a British feel as her guiding principle throughout the process.
Behind the scenes, the writing team includes notable figures such as Charlie Skelton from 8 Out of 10 Cats, comedian Al Roberts, and Bella Hull from Have I Got News For You. Prior to filming, the entire group visited America to meet with Lorne Michaels, creator and executive producer of the original show, who is also overseeing the UK adaptation. Bamgboye remarked on the openness of the US team, stating, “They’ve been so open with what works,” highlighting the importance of adhering to a successful format while tailoring it for a British audience.
Saturday Night Live UK’s format will follow the blueprint of its American counterpart, featuring live sketches alongside pre-recorded ones and musical performances. The show’s debut episodes are anchored by hosts Tina Fey, Jamie Dornan, and Riz Ahmed—names expected to draw viewer interest. Fey, who has spent time mentoring the cast, impresses with her preparation and dedication, inspiring the performers. With an emphasis squarely on comedy and not on viral potential, both Marlow and Bamgboye stress that the sketches are crafted to be funny first rather than designed for social media impact. The series will air live on Sky every Saturday night, capturing the energy and occasional unpredictability characteristic of live television, with cue cards used instead of teleprompters to enable quick adaptations during the performance
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