Comedy icon Steve Martin, who has hosted Saturday Night Live 16 times, will take the stage to deliver the opening monologue for the SNL50: The Anniversary Special on February 2, 2025, airing live at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC and Peacock. The three-hour primetime event marks a milestone celebration of the legendary sketch comedy series, which has shaped pop culture for five decades. The special will feature a mix of heartfelt tributes, musical performances, and appearances by beloved SNL alumni, reflecting on the show’s enduring impact.

Martin, who first hosted in 1976 during the show’s early years, is a fitting choice to kick off the festivities. Known for his sharp wit and memorable roles in films like The Jerk and Father of the Bride, he’s expected to deliver a monologue that blends his signature humor with nostalgic reflections on SNL’s legacy. The special is already generating buzz as a frontrunner for the 2025 Emmy Award for Variety Special (Live), boasting a commanding 92.2% in Gold Derby’s prediction odds. As fans eagerly await this historic broadcast, Martin’s involvement ensures a night of laughter and celebration for one of television’s most iconic shows.