SNL UK Taps Emmy-Winning Producer James Longman to Lead London Show

Sky has announced the senior creative team for its upcoming British version of Saturday Night Live. The appointments were confirmed this week. The show is set to record live from London later this year.

This marks a major investment in U.K. live comedy. The team brings decades of combined experience in top-tier television. According to Sky, production will involve significant U.K. resources.

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James Longman will serve as the lead producer for SNL UK. He is a two-time Emmy winner. His credits include The Late Late Show with James Corden.

Longman has also worked on popular U.K. series like Never Mind the Buzzcocks. He expressed excitement about returning to the London comedy scene. He called it an honor to bring the SNL legacy to a new audience.

Director Liz Clare and head writer Daran Jonno Johnson complete the core team. Clare has directed major live events like An Audience with Adele and the BRIT Awards. Johnson is known for his work with the sketch group Sheeps and for Disney+.

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The original SNL creator, Lorne Michaels, is an executive producer on this project. His involvement ensures a link to the iconic New York show. The format promises to spotlight British comedic talent.

The show will be produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio and Broadway Video. It will air on Sky and its streaming service, Now. This move signals a serious push into live event programming.

Industry observers see this as a test for the iconic format outside North America. Success could pave the way for other international editions. It represents a major moment for U.K. comedians and writers.

The announcement of the SNL UK creative team solidifies plans for the highly anticipated show. This blend of Emmy-winning production and homegrown comedic talent aims to capture the original’s magic. The success of this London edition will be closely watched by the global entertainment industry.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Q1: When will SNL UK start airing?

An exact premiere date has not been announced yet. Sky has confirmed the show will record and air live from London later in 2025. Production details are still being finalized.

Q2: Who is Lorne Michaels in relation to SNL UK?

Lorne Michaels is the creator and longtime executive producer of the original Saturday Night Live in New York. He is serving as an executive producer for the U.K. version, providing creative oversight.

Q3: What channel will SNL UK be on?

SNL UK will air on the Sky satellite television platform. It will also be available to stream simultaneously on the NOW streaming service in the UK.

Q4: Will the show use a guest host and musical guest each week?

Yes, the format is expected to follow the classic SNL model. Each episode will likely feature a different celebrity guest host and a musical performance act, just like the American original.