SNL UK back for season two with Andy Burnham in its sights
SNL UK returns for a second series, with the cast reflecting on its viral first run and new sketches targeting Andy Burnham.
The Full Story
A plain summary built from the channels that reported this story.
Saturday Night Live UK launched its second series tonight, with the cast promising to build on a first season that exceeded expectations despite early doubts. The show, which cost Sky a reported fortune to secure the rights to, faced questions over whether the American format would translate to British audiences. But those doubts were answered by a viral run online, where clips reached millions of viewers beyond the live broadcast.
Ahead of the first episode, cast members spoke about the pressure and the excitement of returning. One described the moment of the countdown as 'electric', while another said the new series allows them to 'really flex and start to show off'. The team acknowledged that not every sketch lands, but that is part of the show's appeal. As one put it, 'not every sketch has to hit'.
The political landscape has shifted since season one, when George Fouracres' impersonation of Keir Starmer became a breakout hit. With Starmer's resignation and Andy Burnham now in Downing Street, the show has a new target. The cast joked about the ease of mocking politicians, with one noting that every prime minister is fair game. Burnham, they said, 'will no doubt give us some stuff we can work with'.
The show's debut season proved that its success extends far beyond traditional TV ratings, with clips racking up millions of views online. The second series will be hoping to replicate that reach while still delivering the live, unpredictable energy that defined the first run. The first episode airs tonight, and the cast are confident they can build on the momentum.
On screen
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Key Claims
Claims reported during this story's coverage, mapped by channel. Ordered by how many channels carried each claim.
| Claim | Sky News |
|---|---|
| Critics expressed doubt about the show's launch and whether the US format would translate. | |
| George Fouracres' portrayal of Keir Starmer was a standout performance in the first season. | |
| The first season of the show reportedly achieved viral success online, with clips drawing millions of views. | |
| The upcoming season is set to include political sketches, including a portrayal of Andy Burnham. |
Channel Perspectives
What each channel focused on, with key quotes.
This programme aired the same report but followed it with extended presenter discussion, reflecting on the show's return with clear enthusiasm. The presenters joked about attempting an Andy Burnham impersonation and praised the opportunity for young comedians, adding a lighter, more personal touch to the coverage.
- “It's great, it's a good start. I'm looking forward to the Andy Burnham sketch.”
- “I might tease you with my... Well, you've got the glasses, I think you could do it much better.”
- “And I'm really pleased as well for the young comedians.”
This bulletin delivered the same report without additional presenter commentary, moving straight to weather after the piece. The tone was straightforward news, highlighting the show's return and its aim to outdo the success of the first season, with no extra analysis or banter.
- “SNL UK is back with a new season it's taking another satirical swipe at politics and culture”
- “what started as an expensive television gamble returns hoping to show that it has the same power”
Broadcast Timeline
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