The grand celebration marking the 50th anniversary of "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) was a glittering affair, with a star-laden lineup that saw the return of many cherished cast members. Yet, the notable absence of Dan Aykroyd left numerous fans puzzled and wondering why he wasn't part of the festive occasion. Here's an in-depth look into why Aykroyd missed out on SNL's half-century milestone.
Dan Aykroyd's absence from the SNL 50th anniversary special was a surprising omission, considering his pivotal role as one of the show's original cast members. A close confidant of Aykroyd revealed that he "regrettably couldn't attend" the event (via LateNighter).
Despite his physical absence, viewers can expect a nostalgic trip down memory lane as the broadcast will feature clips showcasing Aykroyd's iconic moments from the show's early years. However, the exact rationale behind his non-attendance remains shrouded in mystery. Aykroyd's absence means that the reunion of the legendary "Not Ready for Prime Time Players" will fall short of being a complete ensemble. Fans who had harbored hopes for a full reunion of the original cast were understandably disappointed.
The special, set to air on February 16th, promises to be a star-studded spectacle, with a stellar lineup comprising both current and former cast members, including Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, Eddie Murphy, and Maya Rudolph, among a host of others.
Aykroyd's absence is particularly significant given his crucial role in the show's nascent years, especially as a member of the inaugural 1975 cast. Adding to the list of absentees is former cast member Bill Hader, who declined the invitation to return for the anniversary celebration. Hader, who was a prominent figure in SNL from 2006 to 2013, has steered clear of recent episodes (via Puck News).
Even though Aykroyd and Hader won't be present in the flesh, the 50th anniversary special is poised to be a monumental celebration of SNL's enduring legacy. It will also spotlight members of the esteemed "Five-Timers Club," which boasts Steve Martin, Tom Hanks, and Martin Short, along with numerous other celebrities.
