
SNL U.K. Returns for Second Season in September

By Ricky Gervais


By Ricky Gervais
The acclaimed British iteration of “Saturday Night Live” is officially set to kick off its second season on Sky and Now. Viewers can mark their calendars for the premiere on September 12, which will inaugurate a series of six brand-new episodes. This announcement follows the initial successful run of the show earlier this year, establishing its presence in the U.K. entertainment landscape.
Mirroring the structure of its inaugural season, each episode will feature a unique pairing: a new celebrity host joining forces with a dynamic musical guest. Audiences can look forward to a diverse range of content, including original comedic sketches, captivating live musical acts, and a distinctly British interpretation of the popular “Weekend Update” segment, offering a satirical take on current events.
All eleven talented cast members from the debut season are confirmed to return, ensuring continuity and familiar faces for fans. These include Hammed Animashaun, Ayoade Bamgboye, Larry Dean, Celeste Dring, George Fouracres, Ania Magliano, Annabel Marlow, Al Nash, Jack Shep, Emma Sidi, and Paddy Young. Additionally, some key changes have been made behind the camera to enhance the production. Laura Claxton has been promoted to co-head writer, joining Jonno Johnson, who continues in his role as head writer. Liz Clare will return as director, while Heather MacVean will take on costume design, and Sinead Oldnall will manage onscreen talent for the U.K. production.
The series is a collaborative effort between Universal Television Alternative Studio’s U.K. division and Broadway Video, produced specifically for Sky and NOW. Executive production is handled by the legendary Lorne Michaels, with James Longman overseeing the production. Helen Kruger Bratt leads UTAS U.K. Productions as managing director, supported by Andy Charles Smith as producer and Shanna Baynard and Hannah Peddar managing various aspects of production.
Beyond the initial six-episode run, plans are already in motion for additional episodes to be broadcast in early 2027, signaling a strong commitment to the show’s future. The commissioning of the series was spearheaded by Phil Edgar-Jones, Sky’s executive director of unscripted originals, with Alex Moody, the broadcaster’s head of comedy commissioning, securing the second-season order under the oversight of Sky Studios CEO and chief content officer Cecile Frot-Coutaz.
About the author

Comedian, writer, and actor who created "The Office" and writes provocatively on comedy and society.

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