From the 70s to Now: 'SNL 50' Musical Skit Takes a Hilarious Journey Through NYC's History with Mayoral Parodies

Step into the time machine of laughter as "Saturday Night Live" commemorates its 50th anniversary with a musical skit that delves into the gritty and glamorous history of New York City. The comedic journey, led by alums John Mulaney and Pete Davidson, encapsulates the trials and tribulations of the Big Apple through the lens of four iconic mayors.

The performance kicks off in the 1970s, a tumultuous era for the city marked by high crime rates and financial turmoil. Davidson and David Spade's characters, fresh-faced dreamers in the city that never sleeps, are greeted by Mulaney's hotdog vendor lamenting, "New York is dying." The stage is set for a musical extravaganza that sets the tone for the decades to come.

Transitioning to the 1980s, a period of revival for New York, Mulaney highlights the city's transformation and quirky trends. Nathan Lane steals the spotlight with a rendition of Hakuna Matata, reimagined with a dash of cocaine and vodka, adding his unique flair to the nostalgic era.

As the skit fast-forwards to the 1990s, the focus shifts to the evolution of Times Square, from its seedy past to the emergence of cartoon mascots. Mulaney's witty commentary sets the stage for a vibrant musical interlude that captures the essence of the era.

The stage then welcomes a parade of mayors, each leaving their mark on the cityscape. Kate McKinnon shines as Rudy Giuliani, belting out a satirical version of "My Shot" from "Hamilton," drawing parallels between the former mayor and the chaotic charm of the city.

The comedic spotlight then turns to Michael Bloomberg, Bill de Blasio, and Eric Adams, as the skit playfully critiques their policies and personas. From affordability woes to subway shenanigans, each mayor is humorously portrayed, adding a contemporary twist to the historical narrative.

Scarlett Johansson makes a cameo, highlighting the perils of electric bikes in the city, adding a touch of modern-day absurdity to the performance. The skit culminates with a message of resilience and belief in the spirit of New York, echoed by Mulaney as the ensemble joins in a rousing rendition of "One Day More" from Les Misérables.