The live special for SNL’s 50th anniversary on Sunday night featured a wealth of memorable moments, including appearances by Mike Meyers, Steve Martin, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler. However, it was Adam Sandler’s emotional performance of his original song “50 Years” that captivated audiences both in the studio and online.
Sandler, who was let go from SNL in 1995 after a notable five-year tenure, returned for the anniversary celebration to pay homage to the show’s legacy. Introduced by Jack Nicholson, Sandler took the stage with a guitar, initially delivering laughs with his comedic lyrics that referenced longtime SNL showrunner Lorne Michaels and the experience of cast members enjoying the show’s success.
However, the tone shifted dramatically as Sandler honored the memory of late cast members, including Phil Hartman, Chris Farley, and Norm MacDonald. As he struggled to contain his emotions, the audience empathized with him, with many expressing their feelings on social media. One YouTube viewer noted, “Him choking up at the end choked me up!!”, while TikTok users echoed these sentiments, recognizing Sandler’s ability to evoke tears and laughter simultaneously.
This tribute is not new for Sandler; he has previously commemorated his late friend Farley in other performances, including his “Chris Farley Song” from his 2018 Netflix special, where he often found it difficult to sing due to the emotion it stirred in him.
Overall, Adam Sandler’s heartfelt tribute served as a poignant reminder of the bonds formed throughout SNL’s 50 years, celebrating not just the legacy of the show, but the personal connections that have developed over the decades. This emotional narrative reflects the enduring impact of SNL on both its cast and its audience, showcasing the ability of comedy to connect people in profound ways.