SNL

Arts & Entertainment abbreviation · Film, Television and Theater

SNL stands for Saturday Night Live, a film, television and theater abbreviation.

Long-running NBC late-night sketch comedy and variety show, broadcast live from New York with a weekly guest host and musical guest. Its cast has launched many comedy careers.

Example: She hosted SNL for the first time and nailed the opening monologue.

Usage notes

Created by Lorne Michaels and premiered on October 11, 1975, originally titled NBC's Saturday Night. Alumni include Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig. The show has won more Primetime Emmy Awards than any other series and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025.

Related abbreviations

More film, television and theater abbreviations

• POV – Point of view
• PPV – Pay-per-view
• R – Restricted
• SFX – Sound effects
• SL – Stage left
• SM – Stage manager
• SR – Stage right
• SVOD – Subscription video on demand
• THX – THX
• TV-14 – Parents Strongly Cautioned
• TV-G – General Audience
• TV-MA – Mature Audience Only

See all 63 film, television and theater abbreviations →

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