“James Longman Discusses Sky’s SNL UK Sketch Show Debut”
Ahead of its launch, Sky held a London showcase for SNL UK. Lead producer James Longman praised the ensemble and previewed the show.
Casting and audition process
The cast underwent a rigorous four-stage selection. Applicants first submitted a five-minute tape and then performed in a live showcase.
They then completed a silent studio audition and a final five-minute, no-laugh-track camera performance.
- Hammed Animashaun
- Ayoade Bamgboye
- Larry Dean
- Celeste Dring
- George Fouracres
- Ania Magliano
- Annabel Marlow
- Al Nash
- Jack Shep
- Emma Sidi
- Paddy Young
Preview footage and key sketches
Attendees saw behind-the-scenes footage at the central London event. Clips included nods to the original U.S. format while highlighting new British material.
Longman said the production borrows the U.S. house but creates distinct rooms for its own identity. Filmogaz.com learned Magliano and Young will be paired for an important sketch.
Broadcast plans and hosts
The series debuts on Sky One at 10 p.m. GMT. Episodes arrive on Peacock the following day for U.S. viewers.
Tina Fey will host the opening episode. Riz Ahmed and Jamie Dornan follow as subsequent guest hosts.
The initial order comprises six episodes. Sky has released teasers ahead of the launch.
Production and leadership
SNL UK is produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio UK with Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video. The project was commissioned by senior Sky executives.
Phil Edgar-Jones, commissioning executive Lisa Clark, and Cecile Frot-Coutaz approved the series. Helen Kruger Bratt oversees UTAS UK Productions as managing director.
Shanna Baynard serves as Executive in Charge of Production. Andy Charles Smith is the lead producer for UTAS UK, and Sam Salter is production executive.
James Longman, also known for his executive producing work on The Late Late Show with James Corden, discussed Sky’s SNL UK sketch show debut at the event.
Writing team
- Lead: Daran Jonno Johnson
- Al Roberts
- Ayo Adenekan
- Bella Hull
- Celya AB
- Charlie Skelton
- Chris Cantrill
- Ellie Fulcher
- Gráinne Maguire
- Hari Kanth
- Humphrey Ker
- James Farmer
- Jonno Johnson
- Joseph Moore
- Keith Akushie
- Laura Claxton
- Lorna Rose Treen
- Louis Waymouth
- Nathan Foad
- Omar Badawy
- Omodara Olatunji
Festival highlights and acquisitions
Sky used its Up Next showcase to reveal other upcoming titles. Highlights included Meantime and Inheritance, and films such as Blood on the Snow.
Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom and Animol were also promoted. Animol marks Ashley Walters’ directing debut.
Filmogaz.com was first to report Sky’s acquisition of Heated Rivalry season two, the new Hudson Williams series Yaga, and A24/Universal drama Superfakes.
The launch marks the end of a long build-up. The series was first reported to be in development nearly five years ago.
