Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gratitude, hard work, more cowbell in charming docuseries.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
SNL 50: Beyond Saturday Night
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
SNL 50: BEYOND SATURDAY NIGHT begins with comic actor Tracy Morgan (30 Rock) sitting on a couch, riffing on his roots as a comic. He gives a nod to the fact that he's been making people laugh since his mother's "water broke," mentioning that his friends in New York encouraged him to try out for Saturday Night Live. While watching his audition tape, he smiles nostalgically, nodding his head. Morgan is one of many comic actors—others include Amy Poehler (Inside Out), Pete Davidson (Bupkis), and Jason Sudeikis (Ted Lasso)—who discuss their challenges and successes on the long-running comedy show. Writers, cast members, and producers speak about some of the show's most beloved auditions, sketches (a whole episode is devoted to the legendary "More Cowbell"), and behind-the-scenes hijinks.
Is It Any Good?
This delightful and engrossing docuseries about the beloved comedy show doesn't rest on its laurels. The ups and downs behind one of the longest running series in television history are explored with utmost care in SNL 50: Beyond Saturday Night. Coarse language and edgy jokes might keep parents of tweens on their toes, but there's not much too lewd or dark for younger teens.
Fans of the esteemed comedy series will feast on the stories of how cast members got on the show, how their favorite sketches evolved, and how the writers room functions. Even people unfamiliar with SNL will enjoy the stories shared by many actors who've launched their careers in the glow of this lionized comedy institution.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about perseverance in the docuseries. Actors, writers, and crew discuss the diligence and hard work that goes into creating an iconic comedy series. What do you think is worth working hard to achieve?
People who have worked on SNL discuss the organized chaos that drives the show. Can you think of different ways teamwork manifests in your life?
Cast members shed tears of gratitude when reflecting on their time on SNL. What makes you so grateful that you could cry?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 16, 2025
- Cast : Amy Poehler , Tracy Morgan , Will Ferrell
- Network : Peacock
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Arts , History
- Character Strengths : Communication , Gratitude , Perseverance
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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