Adam Sandler made a stylish and humorous appearance at the SNL 50: The Anniversary Special, a star-studded celebration of Saturday Night Live’s five-decade run. Known for his casual and often unconventional fashion choices—like his signature baggy shorts and loud polo shirts—Sandler surprised fans by dressing up in a sleek tuxedo for the event. His decision to go black-tie was partly inspired by a playful nudge from his friend Al Franken, who spotted him in a sweatshirt the night before and jokingly asked, “What are you doing?” Sandler admitted to Variety that the tuxedo made him feel a bit out of his comfort zone, but he didn’t want to let Franken down. Despite his efforts, Sandler’s friend Amy Schumer couldn’t resist teasing him about his look during a joint red carpet interview. She complimented him on how handsome he looked but slyly suggested that a tailor might have helped perfect the fit. Sandler, ever the quick wit, responded, “That means someone’s gotta touch me, and I don’t like that.”
The tuxedo wasn’t the only highlight of Sandler’s night. During the special, he paid a heartfelt tribute to SNL’s legacy and his own time on the show, which spanned from 1991 to 1995. After a surprise introduction by the iconic Jack Nicholson—who appeared in a Yankees beret and tinted sunglasses—Sandler performed an original song titled “50 Years.” The song was a nostalgic ode to the show’s history, weaving in memories from his own time as a cast member. He even included a touching shoutout to his late friend and former SNL co-star Chris Farley, a moment that left the audience and viewers at home deeply moved. Sandler’s performance was a reminder of his enduring connection to the show and its impact on his career.
Sandler’s fashion choices have always been a topic of conversation, and his tuxedo at the SNL anniversary was no exception. While some fans praised him for dressing up, others have come to love his signature laid-back, oversized looks. In fact, in 2021, Sandler topped Google’s list of most-searched celebrity outfits, beating out stars like Britney Spears and Harry Styles. His bold, colorful, and often unconventional style has become a part of his persona, even if not everyone is a fan. For instance, his friend Jennifer Aniston once playfully roasted him for wearing a Knicks sweatshirt over a Hawaiian shirt, paired with khakis and blue sneakers, at the premiere of Murder Mystery 2 in 2023. Aniston, who stunned in a netted Versace minidress, jokingly exclaimed, “What the hell are you doing?!” and refused to stand next to him. Sandler’s ability to laugh at himself and embrace his unique sense of style is part of why fans and friends alike adore him.
Sandler’s performance of “50 Years” was a defining moment of the SNL anniversary special. The song not only celebrated the show’s storied history but also highlighted Sandler’s own journey as a comedian and performer. His ability to blend humor and sentiment resonated deeply with the audience, who were reminded of the countless memories he helped create during his time on SNL. The shoutout to Chris Farley was particularly poignant, as it brought attention to the lasting impact of their friendship and the legacy of their shared experiences on the show. Sandler’s performance was a testament to his talent and his enduring connection to the SNL family.
The SNL 50: The Anniversary Special was a celebration of the show’s rich history, and Sandler’s appearance was a perfect blend of nostalgia and humor. His decision to wear a tuxedo, while out of character, showed his willingness to step out of his comfort zone for a special occasion. At the same time, his lighthearted comments and interactions with friends like Amy Schumer and Al Franken kept the event grounded and true to his personality. Whether in a tuxedo or his signature sweatshirt and shorts, Sandler’s authenticity and sense of humor continue to make him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
In the end, Adam Sandler’s night at the SNL anniversary was a testament to his unique blend of talent, humor, and heart. From his dapper tuxedo to his touching tribute song, Sandler proved once again why he remains a fan favorite. His ability to laugh at himself, embrace his quirks, and connect with audiences on a personal level is a quality that has defined his career. Whether on the red carpet or on stage, Sandler’s authenticity and charm shine through, reminding us all of why he’s such a special figure in the world of comedy and beyond.
