The Best Episodes of SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night Season 1

Episode Rankings

1. #1 Fan Favorite
   

   8.7/10(237 votes)

   #1 - Five Minutes

   S1:E11/16/2025

   SNL's secretive audition process revealed through rare footage and candid stories from cast members. Get an inside look at the nerve-wracking tryouts and learn how comedians prepared for their big shot at late-night stardom.

   Director:Robert Alexander

   Writer:Unknown

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   Director:Robert Alexander

   Writer:Unknown
2. 

   8.7/10(217 votes)

   #2 - Written By: A Week Inside the SNL Writers Room

   S1:E21/16/2025

   A behind-the-scenes look at the intense week-long journey of creating comedy sketches for a popular live TV show. From initial ideas to final performance, witness the creative process unfold under pressure.

   Director:Marshall Curry

   Writer:Unknown

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   Director:Marshall Curry

   Writer:Unknown
3. 

   8.1/10(198 votes)

   #3 - More Cowbell

   S1:E31/16/2025

   An in-depth look at the creation of a famous 2000 SNL sketch starring Christopher Walken. An exploration of the roles of cast members Ferrell, Parnell, Fallon, Sanz, and Kattan in bringing this iconic comedy moment to life.

   Director:Neil Berkeley

   Writer:Unknown

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   Director:Neil Berkeley

   Writer:Unknown
4. 

   8.0/10(165 votes)

   #4 - Season 11: The Weird Year

   S1:E41/16/2025

   A behind-the-scenes look at Saturday Night Live's tumultuous 1985-86 season, when creator Lorne Michaels returned after a 5-year absence. Despite high expectations, the show faced significant on-screen challenges during this comeback year.

   Director:Jason Zeldes

   Writer:Unknown

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   Director:Jason Zeldes

   Writer:Unknown