UK’s SNL Debut Divides Critics, Lacks Cultural Punch

New Sketch Show Stumbles in First Outing

The highly anticipated British version of the iconic American sketch show, Saturday Night Live, premiered over the weekend, but early reviews suggest the show is struggling to find its footing on UK shores. While the format has been a staple of American television for decades, its transition to the UK has been met with mixed reactions, with many critics questioning whether the show’s signature humor translates effectively across the Atlantic.

Cultural Differences Hamper Humor

Rob Hutton, a parliamentary sketch writer for The Critic, shared his thoughts on the show’s debut, noting that new comedy shows often face challenges in their initial episodes. “Any new comedy actually is generally bad in the first episode,” Hutton explained. “You’re trying to get to know the characters. You’re trying to get to know the performers. So, it’s actually really, really, really difficult to launch anything new.” He pointed out that most sitcoms aren’t funny in their first outing.

However, Hutton also expressed disappointment that the UK is relying on American formats when it has a rich history of its own successful sketch comedy. “It’s great to see a new sketch show on British television. We used to have loads of these with the country that gave the world Monty Python and Mitchell and Webb and French and Saunders,” he said. “There’s just nothing like that being made on British TV, and it’s a little bit sad that we’ve had to get some Americans in to come and do it for us.”

The Live vs. Recorded Debate

A key criticism leveled against the UK’s SNL is its decision to air live. Hutton argued that sketch comedy often benefits from the ability to be recorded and edited. “Sketch comedy works better, I think, when it’s recorded and you can really, really nail it. You can edit it down. You can see what works,” he stated. He questioned the necessity of a live broadcast, especially since the show features largely timeless sketches rather than immediate political commentary.

Hutton also suggested that the American version of Saturday Night Live holds a special place in the cultural memory of many Americans, often associated with nostalgic viewing habits. “If you’re an American who’s our age, then you probably have great memories of watching Saturday Night Live at somebody’s house while you were drunk or high or something,” he mused. This deep-seated cultural connection, he implied, might be missing for a British audience who have had less exposure to the show.

A Glimmer of Hope?

Despite the criticisms, there were some positive notes. Hutton acknowledged the difficulty of launching a new show and expressed hope for its future. “I think they’ll get there, you know,” he offered. He also highlighted the unexpected boost the show received when former U.S. President Donald Trump reposted a skit featuring a mock interaction between Keir Starmer and David Lammy. “You could not pay for something as good as that,” he remarked on the publicity value.

The show’s divisive reception was further illustrated by differing opinions among the program’s hosts. While one host found it lacking, another suggested it was worth watching due to its polarizing effect. A review from The Sunday Times humorously proposed a drinking game: “Take a shot of vodka every time you properly laugh out loud, then drive home.” This highlights the show’s ability to spark conversation, even if the laughs are few and far between.

Broader Implications for UK Television

The debut of the UK’s Saturday Night Live raises questions about the future of sketch comedy on British television. With a perceived decline in original, homegrown sketch shows, the reliance on imported formats like SNL could signal a broader trend. Critics like Hutton are calling for British broadcasters to invest more in nurturing domestic talent and creating shows that resonate with a UK audience, drawing inspiration from the country’s own rich comedic heritage.

What’s Next for SNL UK?

As the show moves forward, its ability to adapt and connect with viewers will be crucial. Future episodes will need to demonstrate a stronger understanding of British humor and culture to gain wider appeal. Whether it can evolve from its initial mixed reception to become a lasting fixture on Saturday nights remains to be seen, but its early performance suggests a challenging road ahead.

Source: SNL Format Does Not Work For UK | Rob Hutton (YouTube)