‘Saturday Night Live UK’ Debuts Strongly with Nearly 230K UK Viewers; Trump Shares Sketch Mocking PM Starmer

The UK adaptation of Saturday Night Live premiered on Sky One last weekend, drawing nearly 230,000 viewers in the UK, according to official ratings. The debut episode featured Tina Fey as host and introduced new UK cast members George Fouracres and Jack Shep, marking a promising start for the series as it expands its reach to British audiences, reports Hollywood Reporter. The show also aired the next day in the US on Peacock, broadening its transatlantic presence, Deadline details.

The episode gained additional attention when former US President Donald Trump shared a sketch mocking UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on his Truth Social account, where it received over 20,000 likes, i News states. The satirical cold open portrayed Starmer as reluctant to engage with Trump, humorously referencing strained US-UK relations concerning Iran, The Guardian reveals. This move by Trump has amplified the sketch's visibility and sparked discussion about the role of political satire in international diplomacy.

Critics offered mixed reviews of the UK adaptation. While some praised the performances and creative direction, including Tina Fey’s surprise guest appearances, others found the show lacking the distinct humor and appeal of the American original. The Week notes that British critics considered the premiere a somewhat tepid imitation, questioning whether the format translates effectively to a UK audience.

The show’s blend of contemporary political satire with cultural humor has quickly made it a talking point on both sides of the Atlantic. The National highlights that viral online clips, especially the impersonation of David Attenborough, helped engage audiences beyond traditional broadcast viewers. Mashable adds that Tina Fey’s hosting and the show's indoor entertainment segments were well-received amidst changing viewing habits.

Looking ahead, the continued reception of Saturday Night Live UK will be closely watched to see if it can maintain momentum and develop a distinct identity separate from its US predecessor. The show’s ability to attract prominent guest stars, innovate satirical content, and resonate with UK viewers will be key factors for its sustainability and influence. Additionally, how political figures respond to its sketches may shape its role in public discourse going forward.