March 21, 2026 /Mpelembe Media/ — The premiere episode hosted by Tina Fey generated a highly polarized response. Professional critics offered mixed-to-positive reviews, noting that while the opening was “stilted,” the show ultimately “didn’t fail”. Reviewers praised the zingy “Weekend Review” segment, a surreal Paddington sketch, and Jack Shep’s accurate Princess Diana impression. However, critics also felt the production played the traditional SNL formula too safely, resulting in what some described as “tepid cosplay”.
Audiences were similarly divided. Some viewers reported “switching off” just moments into the political cold open mocking Prime Minister Keir Starmer, taking to social media to brand the debut as “excruciating” and “awful”. Conversely, other viewers were pleasantly surprised, praising the young cast for smashing it under pressure and delivering wonderfully British, laugh-out-loud moments.