The 50th anniversary celebration of Saturday Night Live (SNL) was a star-studded affair, bringing together a plethora of beloved cast members to commemorate this significant milestone. However, the notable absence of Dan Aykroyd, one of the show’s original cast members, raised questions among fans.
Aykroyd’s nonattendance was confirmed by a source who stated he “could not come” to the anniversary special. While the exact reasons remain unclear, fans can expect to see memorable clips showcasing his iconic moments during the broadcast on February 16. His absence is particularly felt as it means the reunion of the original “Not Ready for Prime Time Players” will not be complete, despite hopes for a full gathering of the original cast.
Additionally, former cast member Bill Hader also chose not to attend the event, joining Aykroyd in missing this historic milestone. Hader, who left a significant mark on SNL from 2006 to 2013, hasn’t been part of any recent episodes either.
Despite these absences, the special promises to be a grand celebration of SNL’s enduring legacy, shining a spotlight on both past and present stars. Viewers can look forward to appearances from notable figures in the “Five-Timers Club,” including Steve Martin, Tom Hanks, and Martin Short, among many others.
The 50th anniversary of SNL is positioned to be a reflective and joyous celebration, highlighting the history and impact of the show, leaving fans with an exciting legacy worth celebrating even if some original stars are missing from the scene.