For 50 years Saturday Night Live has been poking fun at popular culture, making audiences laugh, and opening its stage to exceptional music artists. The show was created by Lorne Michaels, and original cast members included the likes of Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Gilda Radner, and many others performing 90 minutes of sketch comedy that would go on to permeate the zeitgeist.

This history was celebrated in February with a three-hour special. But now it’s time to move on to Season 51, premiering October 4.

Here’s everything you need to know, including cast changes, hosting duties, and ways to tune in.

SNL cast departures

SNL has launched the careers of many comedians over the years, including Tina Fey, Will Ferrell, and Eddie Murphy. Naturally, cast members come and go; the s

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