The SNL50: The Anniversary Special kicked off with a bang on Sunday, February 16, 

as comedy legend and Saturday Night Live veteran Steve Martin took the stage to open the show. 

With 16 hosting stints under his belt, Martin is one of the show’s most frequent and beloved guest hosts, making him the perfect choice to welcome viewers to this milestone celebration.

Martin, 79, who made his SNL debut in 1976 during the show’s second season, began his monologue by acknowledging the star-studded audience in attendance. 

In classic Martin fashion, he peppered his speech with dry wit and self-deprecating humor, 

poking fun at the often-overlooked writing staff of SNL while teasing some of the evening’s biggest names.

John Mulaney Joins the Fun

The audience erupted in cheers as comedian John Mulaney, a former SNL writer and five-time host, unexpectedly joined Martin onstage. Martin feigned surprise at Mulaney’s presence, joking, “I didn’t know you were even gonna be here!” Without missing a beat, Mulaney, 42, quipped back, “You would if you’d ever come to rehearsal.”

The Only Murders in the Building star then became the target of Mulaney’s razor-sharp wit. In a mock congratulatory speech, Mulaney rattled off a list of prestigious awards and nominations Martin had not actually received, drawing attention to the comedian’s lack of recognition at recent ceremonies. The moment, delivered with Mulaney’s signature deadpan delivery, had the audience in stitches.

A Celebrity Crowd Like No Other

Mulaney then turned his focus to the SNL50 audience, which was packed with Hollywood’s biggest names. In a biting but playful remark, he joked, “This room is filled with some of the most difficult people I have ever met in my entire life.”

One of his most memorable jabs came when he noted that over the course of SNL’s 50-year history, nearly 900 celebrities have hosted the show. “And it amazes me that only two of them have committed murder,” he added, seemingly referencing O.J. Simpson and Robert Blake. While neither was convicted of murder in criminal court, both were later found liable in civil cases. The edgy remark drew gasps and laughter from the crowd, showcasing Mulaney’s fearless approach to comedy.

Mulaney wrapped up his appearance by taking another lighthearted shot at celebrity hosts, pointing out that many arrive with their own unique quirks, disrupting the usual rhythm of the show. “But not you, Steve,” he said. “Because you have no dynamic.”

Martin Short’s Grand Entrance (and Exit)

As Mulaney exited the stage, Martin’s longtime friend and Only Murders in the Building co-star Martin Short made his grand entrance. Martin introduced him with a playful dig, saying, “Ladies and gentlemen, the only Canadian who wasn’t in Schitt’s Creek, Martin Short.”

Short, 74, fired back, reminding Martin that they were supposed to co-host the monologue together. Martin appeared to consider it before slyly asking if Short had his passport with him. When Short admitted he didn’t, Martin shouted, “ICE! Get him!”

Right on cue, SNL cast members Mikey Day and Devon Walker, dressed as Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, stormed the stage and dragged Short away. The exaggerated, over-the-top gag left the audience roaring with laughter.

Martin’s Final Words

With the spotlight back on him, Martin delivered one final comedic punch to the audience. He jokingly suggested that if viewers weren’t enjoying the monologue, they should take personal responsibility for their reaction.

“Ask yourselves: When did I abandon joy, and what can I bring to the monologue as an audience member next time?” he quipped, showcasing the same sharp comedic timing that made him an SNL favorite for decades.

Wrapping up, Martin hyped up the rest of the night, listing the big names and musical guests who had already made appearances, including Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon, who had opened the show’s cold open. With his signature dry humor, Martin added, “It’s called front-loading!” before officially kicking off the special.

A Perfect Start to SNL50

Steve Martin’s monologue set the tone for what would be a night filled with laughter, nostalgia, and unforgettable moments. His effortless comedic chemistry with John Mulaney and Martin Short reminded fans why he remains one of SNL’s most iconic and beloved guest hosts.

As the SNL50 celebration continued, it became clear that Saturday Night Live has not only shaped the world of comedy but continues to bring together the best in the business for an unforgettable night of entertainment.

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