SNL UK debuts on Sky with a flat opening sketch, failing to impress despite Tina Fey, Nicola Coughlan, and Graham Norton.
- May 6, 2026
AceShowbiz - Saturday Night Live UK premiered on Sky with a disappointing start that left viewers underwhelmed. The show’s opening sketch, featuring prime minister Keir Starmer nervously handling a phone call from Donald Trump, failed to produce a single memorable joke, setting a bleak tone for the evening.
The episode featured Tina Fey as guest host, whose presence raised expectations. However, the humor still fell flat, drawing attention from other guests such as Nicola Coughlan from Bridgerton, who questioned the purpose of the show’s launch. Adding to the commentary was Graham Norton of The Graham Norton Show, who also contributed his thoughts on the lackluster debut.
Despite the involvement of high-profile figures, the new version of Saturday Night Live in the UK struggled to capture the sharp wit and energy that fans might anticipate from the brand. The absence of engaging comedy in the opening segment was particularly notable, leaving audiences eager for improvements in upcoming episodes.
With a format that has proven successful in other regions, the UK adaptation will need to find its own comedic voice quickly. The initial response suggests that the show is not yet hitting the mark, and viewers will be watching closely to see if future installments can bring back the laughter expected from a show bearing the Saturday Night Live name.