'SNL 40' Must-See Moments: Jimmy and Justin's Medley, Celebrity Jeopardy, Audition Tapes, and More
"Saturday Night Live" celebrated its 40th anniversary with a star-studded special Sunday night and the three-hour sketch comedy extravaganza did not disappoint. Tons of old cast members returned, joined by a veritable who's who of comedy, to honor the groundbreaking late night program's history. There were classic sketches performed, musical numbers from huge stars like Kanye and Paul Simon, and vintage footage that brought a few tears to our eyes. (The good kind.) It was a thrilling and moving tribute to Lorne Michaels, his team, and all the not-ready-for-primetime players of past and present. It's hard to strip down the evening into highlights because everything was pretty magical, but here are a few moments to see in case you missed the big night.
Jimmy Fallon and Justin Timberlake did a cold open musical medley that looked back at the show's catchphrases:
Andy Samberg and Adam Sandler teamed up for a hilarious Digital Short about cracking up in character, which particularly called out notorious breakers like Jimmy Fallon and Horatio Sans:
Miley Cyrus nailed a soulful rendition of "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover" that did Paul Simon proud:
"The Californians" returned, with the help of stars like Bradley Cooper, Kerry Washington, Betty White, and Taylor Swift:
A montage of audition tapes revealed early looks at cast members from Chevy Chase to Amy Poehler, as well as some surprising now-famous talents who didn't make the cut:
And "Celebrity Jeopardy" made a comeback, complete with Will Ferrell's Alex Trebek and Norm MacDonald's Burt Reynolds: