Saturday Night Livewould not be the show it is now without the first group of Not Ready for Primetime Players. When it comes to celebrations,it’s been customary to honor the original cast.The pioneers of late-night sketch comedy. Such was the case forSNL50: The Anniversary Special. But, of the living members of the 1975 cast, there was one notable absence:Dan Aykroyd. Known for his brilliant characters on and off ofSNL, his lack of presence was surely felt.
When it comes to the legacy ofSaturday Night Live, Aykroyd helped shape the sketch comedy series. Between iconic characters, off-stage antics, and a presence that transcended comedy,Aykroyd’s body of work was thanks to his tenure on the show.But according to his agent, the only thing we know is he “won’t be there." The curt answer didn’t necessarily send shockwaves as there was a cavalcade of A-list names on hand, but being one of the original stars, this should have been a time to show up and wave.
Dan Aykroyd Was the Only Living Original Star Absent
Of the first season’s cast, four surviving stars were on hand to celebrate the anniversary.Laraine Newmanappeared in a hilarious"Chad"sketch alongsidePete Davidson;Garrett Morriswas on stage to introduce the"Don’t Look Back in Anger"sketch from Season 3 andJane Curtin, who appeared as herself on “Weekend Update” during the 40th anniversary special, only appeared during the goodbyes, waving after she was acknowledged.
Live From New York! ‘SNL50’ Anniversary Special Opens With Heartfelt Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon Music Number
Saturday Night Live first aired July 05, 2025.
Of course,Chevy Chasewas name-dropped numerous times betweenSNL50: The Homecoming ConcertandSNL50: The Anniversary Special. Even though he was not there in person,Dan Aykroyd was mentioned for his achievements in the seriesas someone who paved the way for many moments that came thanks to him.
Season 1 Has Been Celebrated Leading Up to ‘SNL50’
Aykroyd’s legacy onSaturday Night Liveis larger than you realize. There would be noBlues Brotherssketch or movie had it not been for his andJohn Belushi’s brilliant minds. The Coneheads became icons thanks to his portrayal alongside Curtin and Newman. TheSNLcommercial parody had legs, thanks to Bass-O-Matic, a scene he did revive during the 40th anniversary. Physical comedy has always been a prevalent part of the sketch comedy series, but when it comes to gross-out humor, Aykroyd’sJulia Childallowed blood to spew for decades to come. Of course, the iconic line, “Jane, you ignorant slut,” became a catchphrase that has defined “Weekend Update.“For Aykroyd not to be present and have his achievements celebrated is a shame.
Thankfully, his legacy has been preserved on the screen leading up to the milestone season. Fans have currently been given a gift to go back andwatch the monumental first live episodein all its glory. Pair that with the exceptionalJason Reitmanbiographical filmSaturday Night,SNLfans have the chance to relive that historic moment in various ways. Aykroyd was brilliantly portrayed byDylan O’Brien, capturing his voice and mannerisms with ease. Even thoughChevy Chase dissed the film, Aykroyd celebrated it, callingSaturday Night"a stand-alone masterpiece.“While he was sorely missed, thankfully,Aykroyd’s body of work will forever live on.
SNL50: The Anniversary Specialis available to stream on Peacock.
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