Saturday Night Live: The Likelihood of a Reunion for Its Original Cast on Its 60th Anniversary
Saturday Night Live (SNL) is one of the most iconic and long-running sketch comedy shows in the United States. It has been entertaining audiences for over 48 years since its premiere in 1975. As the show approaches its 60th anniversary in 2035, there has been significant speculation about whether the original cast members will reunite for the special. Let's explore the prospects of such a reunion.
The Probability of a Reunion
The 60th anniversary of SNL is still over a decade away, but the likelihood of any original cast member reuniting for a live broadcast is currently very slim. Many of the cast members from the original era are either deceased or too old to make such a reunion feasible. Only Chevy Chase and perhaps Garrett Morris remain in a position that could allow for a potential reunion, but even they are well into their 70s and 80s, respectively, by that time.
Dead Cast Members from the Original Era
Notable cast members such as John Belushi, George Coe, Michael ODonoghue, and Gilda Radner have already passed away. While the 60th anniversary celebration might include tributes to these actors, a physical reunion is unlikely. If these actors did miraculously appear, it could indeed double as a Halloween special due to the timing.
Current Cast Members and the Future of SNL
SNL's 50th anniversary celebration is set to occur in 2024, around the time of a US presidential election. This is a critical milestone that will likely feature major retrospectives and guest stars from the show's history. The current older cast members like Dan Aykroyd, Jane Curtin, and Laraine Newman will be in their 70s by that time. Garrett Morris, although slightly younger, will still be in his 80s. However, with the average human lifespan, it is uncertain whether these actors will be alive and well enough to participate.
Future Prospects and Special Events
The 2015 SNL 40th anniversary special was a massive event, with many original cast members participating in a star-studded lineup. If the show remains on the air in 2035, a 60th anniversary special is likely, though it may not necessarily feature a specific reunion of the original cast. Major anniversary specials are common, and they often include performances and tributes to honor the show's legacy.
Conclusion and Anticipation
The original cast of SNL is a vital part of the show's history, and a reunion for its 60th anniversary would undoubtedly be a major event. While the likelihood is currently low, fans of the show can still look forward to significant anniversary specials. Regardless of whether the original cast reunites, the show's legacy will continue, with newer seasons featuring new talent and providing endless entertainment to audiences.
Stay tuned for updates as the show approaches its 60th anniversary, and keep your fingers crossed for a spectacular celebration!