‘Saturday Night Live’ Star Dan Aykroyd Addresses ‘SNL 50’ Absence

Dan Aykroyd Addresses His Absence from SNL 50 Anniversary Event
Dan Aykroyd, one of the original stars of Saturday Night Live (SNL), recently spoke out about his notable absence from the show’s highly anticipated 50th-anniversary celebration, which aired on Sunday, February 26. The 72-year-old comedian, best known for his iconic roles on SNL and in films like The Blues Brothers, shared his thoughts via X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, February 19. Aykroyd revealed that he had watched the entire event on TV, highlighting the silver lining of his absence: “Advantage of not attending – got to see every second of concert and show on TV.”

While Aykroyd did not provide a specific reason for missing the event, he expressed his pride and admiration for the milestone. “Quote from my children: ‘Look at daddy’s smile!’ Had it from start to finish. Congratulations Lorne [Michaels]. Well done as usual,” he wrote, referencing SNL creator and executive producer Lorne Michaels. His absence was particularly notable, as many of his former co-stars, including Chevy Chase, Garrett Morris, Jane Curtin, and Laraine Newman, were in attendance.

Aykroyd’s representative had previously confirmed to Puck News that he would not be attending the anniversary event, held at Rockefeller Center in New York City. Other notable alumni, such as Bill Hader, Dana Carvey, Robert Downey Jr., and Joan Cusack, were also absent from the star-studded celebration.

Dan Aykroyd’s Involvement in SNL 50 Celebrations
Despite his physical absence, Aykroyd actively participated in the lead-up to the SNL 50th-anniversary event. In an interview with NPR’s Fresh Air, he reflected on the creation of The Blues Brothers, a musical duo he originated alongside the late John Belushi during their time on SNL. Additionally, Aykroyd took to X multiple times in the days leading up to the event, expressing excitement about potential comedy pairings and the historical significance of the occasion.

On Friday, February 14, Aykroyd shared a heartfelt post about the event: “Cracking a Head with pride at having been a co-founder of SNL along with everyone we were together with in those four years, five decades ago. This telecast is as historical as the next moon landing. Comedy stars of our age all gathered under the aegis of America’s greatest living impresario, my boss Lorne Michaels. People it’s friggin’ Holy!!” His enthusiasm underscored his deep connection to the show and its legacy.

During the broadcast, Aykroyd was honored through numerous retrospective clips showcasing his memorable moments on SNL. While some original cast members, like Laraine Newman, appeared in new sketches, others were celebrated through classic footage. Newman, for instance, starred in a pre-taped sketch with Pete Davidson’s recurring character Chad, reflecting on her time in Studio 8H during the 1970s.

SNL 50 Anniversary Event: A Night of Laughter and Nostalgia
The SNL 50th-anniversary special was a celebration of comedy, nostalgia, and legacy, featuring a star-studded lineup of past and present cast members, as well as celebrity guests. The event included countless memorable moments that delighted long-time fans of the show. One of the most poignant moments came when Garrett Morris received a standing ovation while introducing the 1978 short film Don’t Look Back in Anger. The film, which features an elderly John Belushi visiting the graves of his former SNL co-stars, took on added emotional weight given Belushi’s untimely death in 1982 at the age of 33.

Another highlight of the evening was Bill Murray’s tongue-in-cheek ranking of all the former anchors of Weekend Update during a special segment. The show also paid tribute to the late Gilda Radner, a beloved original cast member who passed away in 1989 due to ovarian cancer. During the closing credits, Jane Curtin and Laraine Newman held up a photo of Radner, honoring her enduring impact on the show.

The event wasn’t without its light-hearted moments, either. Jack Nicholson made a rare public appearance to introduce a song performed by Adam Sandler, while Ryan Reynolds poked fun at the ongoing legal battle between his wife, Blake Lively, and actor Justin Baldoni during an audience Q&A segment with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. Reynolds’ joke, however, drew criticism from Baldoni’s lawyer, who accused him of making light of the situation.

The Significance of SNL’s 50th Anniversary
The SNL 50th-anniversary event was more than just a celebration of a television show; it was a testament to the enduring power of comedy to bring people together. For fans who’ve grown up with SNL, the special served as a reminder of the show’s profound influence on popular culture. From its groundbreaking debut in 1975 to its current status as a cultural institution, SNL has consistently pushed boundaries and launched the careers of countless comedy legends.

The event also highlighted the deep bond between the original cast members, many of whom have remained close over the years. Their presence at the anniversary celebration served as a touching tribute to the show’s early days and the memories they created together. At the same time, the inclusion of newer cast members and celebrity guests underscored SNL’s ability to evolve while staying true to its core mission: making people laugh.

Looking Ahead: The Legacy of SNL
As SNL moves forward, the 50th-anniversary event serves as a reminder of its lasting legacy. The show has not only shaped the careers of comedians but has also become a cultural touchstone, reflecting the changing times and offering commentary on the issues of the day. Its ability to adapt while remaining true to its roots is a testament to the vision of Lorne Michaels and the talent of its cast and crew.

For fans of all generations, SNL continues to be a source of joy and inspiration. As the show prepares to return with new episodes on March 1, featuring guest host Shane Gillis and musical guest Tate McRae, there’s no doubt that it will remain a vital part of the comedy landscape for years to come.

Conclusion: Celebrating Comedy and Community
Dan Aykroyd’s absence from the SNL 50th-anniversary event may have been noticeable, but his spirit was undeniably present. His heartfelt posts and participation in promotional activities reflected his enduring love for the show and its legacy. For fans, the anniversary special was a celebration not only of comedy but of the sense of community that SNL has fostered over the decades.

As the show moves forward, it carries with it the lessons of its past while embracing the possibilities of the future. Whether through nostalgic tributes to its early days or fresh takes on current events, SNL remains a beacon of creativity and laughter. For comedy lovers everywhere, that’s something worth celebrating.