Pete Davidson Reflects on Encounter with Meryl Streep During SNL50 Anniversary Special
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new York, NY – Comedian Pete Davidson recounted a memorable interaction with acting legend Meryl Streep during the recent SNL50: The Anniversary Special, revealing his starstruck reaction to sitting beside her. The special, broadcast February 4, 2024, drew significant viewership, marking a milestone for the long-running sketch comedy program.
Davidson’s Encounter with Streep
Davidson shared that he was overwhelmed by the experience of being seated next to Streep. “It was Meryl Streep, and I just sat down,” Davidson explained. “I’m like, ‘I’m so sorry that I’m sitting next to you. You’re the best.’ And she’s the best.” This anecdote highlights the reverence Davidson holds for Streep’s work and the impact she has had on the entertainment industry.
Return to SNL and Character Reprise
Following his departure from Saturday Night Live after eight seasons (2014-2022),Davidson made a guest appearance in the SNL50: The Anniversary Special. He reprised his role as the monotone character Chad, performing alongside original SNL cast member Laraine newman. Davidson’s return was part of a lineup of former cast members celebrating the show’s 50th anniversary. Newman, who was one of the original “Not Ready for Prime Time Players” when SNL debuted in 1975, brought a historical connection to the special.
Record Viewership for SNL50
The SNL50: The Anniversary Special proved to be a ratings success, attracting 14.8 million viewers across both Peacock and NBC platforms.This figure represents a considerable audience for the show, demonstrating its continued popularity and cultural relevance. the special featured performances and appearances from a wide range of SNL alumni, contributing to its broad appeal. According to Nielsen, this was the most-watched SNL special since the 40th anniversary show in 2015, which garnered 23.0 million viewers.
| Event | Date | viewership | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNL50: The Anniversary Special | February 4, 2024 | 14.8 million | Peacock & NBC |
| SNL 40th anniversary Special | February 21, 2015 | 23.0 million | NBC |
Did You Know?
Saturday Night Live premiered on October 11,1975,with George Carlin as the first host.The show has launched the careers of numerous comedic actors and writers.
Pro Tip:
Catch up on classic SNL sketches and full episodes on the Peacock streaming service.
What are your favorite SNL moments from the past 50 years? Which cast member’s return to the anniversary special excited you the most?
The Legacy of Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live has been a cornerstone of American comedy for five decades,consistently reflecting and shaping the cultural landscape. the show’s ability to satirize current events and create iconic characters has cemented its place in television history. From its early days with Chevy Chase and John belushi to more recent stars like Tina Fey and Bill Hader, SNL has consistently provided a platform for comedic talent. The show’s influence extends beyond entertainment, often impacting political discourse and popular culture. In 2023, SNL received a Peabody Award for its “consistent excellence in comedy and its ability to reflect the zeitgeist.”
Frequently Asked Questions about SNL50
- What was the purpose of the SNL50 special? The special was created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live, bringing together past and present cast members for a night of comedy and nostalgia.
- Who hosted the SNL50 special? The special did not have a traditional host, instead featuring a rotating cast of former SNL stars introducing segments and performing sketches.
- Where can I watch the SNL50 special? The special aired on NBC and is available for streaming on Peacock.
- How many seasons has Pete Davidson been on SNL? Pete Davidson was a cast member on Saturday Night Live for eight seasons, from 2014 to 2022.
- What is Laraine Newman known for on SNL? laraine Newman was one of the original “Not Ready for Prime Time Players” and is known for her character work and impressions.
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