The Saturday Night Live (SNL) 50th Anniversary Special was a night of nostalgia, laughter, and heartfelt tributes, but one of the most touching moments came when Laraine Newman and Jane Curtin honored their late friend and fellow original cast member, Gilda Radner.
Radner, a beloved comedic talent and one of SNL’s original stars, left an unforgettable mark on the show and the comedy world. Her legendary characters, including Roseanne Roseannadanna, Emily Litella, and Baba Wawa, made audiences laugh week after week. Although she passed away in 1989 due to ovarian cancer, her presence was deeply felt during the star-studded celebration.
As Newman and Curtin took the stage, their voices carried both warmth and remembrance. They shared stories of Radner’s infectious energy, quick wit, and the deep bond they shared as the original SNL cast. They spoke about her incredible ability to make people laugh effortlessly and the lasting impact of her work.
“It feels like just yesterday we were standing on that stage together, trying to hold in our laughter during a skit,” Newman said, smiling as she recalled their time on the show.
Curtin added, “Gilda was pure magic. She was fearless in comedy and had a heart just as big as her talent.”
The tribute was accompanied by a montage of Radner’s most iconic SNL moments, reminding the audience of her unmatched comedic timing and unforgettable characters. The crowd erupted in laughter and applause, celebrating the life and legacy of an SNL pioneer.
The moment was especially moving for longtime SNL fans, who fondly remember Radner as a trailblazer in comedy. Even decades after her passing, her influence remains strong in today’s comedy world, inspiring generations of performers.
The SNL 50th Anniversary Special was filled with surprise appearances and heartfelt tributes, but the remembrance of Gilda Radner stood out as one of the most touching highlights of the night. It was a beautiful reminder that while legends may leave us, their laughter and spirit live on forever.