SNL 50 February 14, 2025, marked a truly unforgettable night for fans of Saturday Night Live, as the legendary show celebrated its 50th anniversary with a star-studded concert.
The SNL50: Homecoming Concert was a tribute to five decades of comedy, music, and unforgettable moments, and no one shone brighter than Miley Cyrus. Known for her bold style, powerhouse performances, and undeniable stage presence, Miley's appearance at this milestone event captured the attention of everyone in the room and beyond. From her striking red carpet look to her show-stopping performance, Miley was a true standout at one of the most anticipated events in entertainment.
Miley’s Bold Red Carpet Moment: Channeling ‘The Matrix’
The first impression Miley made that night was with her daring, Matrix-inspired look on the red carpet. Donned in an all-black, sleek Roberto Cavalli gown, she turned heads with a combination of elegance and edginess. The gown featured a body-hugging leather design, accentuated with eye-catching cut-outs along the bodice and legs. Many of these cut-outs were shaped like wings, evoking a feeling of fierce independence and strength.
The dramatic piece was made even more striking with a romantic chiffon train that flowed behind her, adding a touch of ethereal grace to the bold outfit. To complete her red carpet look, Miley chose to wear Paris Texas heels, which gave her an extra dose of glam. Her hair was tousled, and her makeup included smoky eyes, giving her a sultry, almost rebellious vibe. It was clear from the moment she stepped onto the carpet that Miley was ready to deliver something extraordinary.
A Night of Music and Tribute: Miley Cyrus Onstage
Once inside, Miley continued to dominate the evening with her stage performance. She changed into a more ornate, glimmering outfit and wowed the audience with a rendition of her hit single “Flowers.” The performance wasn’t just a showcase of her vocal prowess but also a tribute to the rich history of SNL. As she belted out the lyrics with raw emotion, it was clear that Miley had an unspoken connection to the show. In fact, she dedicated her performance of "Flowers" to SNL founder Lorne Michaels, who has shaped the careers of so many artists over the years.
However, it wasn’t just Miley’s solo performance that captured the crowd’s attention. Alongside Brittany Howard, the two joined forces to pay tribute to one of the greatest rock bands of all time—Queen. They performed “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” which was a poignant nod to the band’s final public performance in North America before Freddie Mercury’s passing. That performance, as many fans know, took place on SNL in 1982, marking a significant moment in music history. Miley and Brittany’s tribute was emotional and filled with energy, reminding everyone of the profound impact that Queen has had on the music world.
Miley’s SNL Legacy: A Longtime Connection to the Show
Miley’s relationship with SNL spans over a decade, and her presence at the 50th anniversary celebration felt like a natural continuation of that history. She has hosted the iconic show three times, with her first appearance as host in 2011 during Season 36. She returned as both host and musical guest in 2013 and 2015, solidifying her place as one of the most beloved SNL personalities. Her musical performances on the show have ranged from powerful solo songs to memorable covers, like her stunning rendition of Paul Simon's “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” during the show’s 40th anniversary special in 2015.
In addition to her hosting duties, Miley has also appeared as a musical guest four times, including her most recent appearance in 2021. This longstanding relationship with SNL gave her the opportunity to interact with many other great musicians, performers, and comedians over the years, and it was evident in her performance at the 50th anniversary concert. Her deep connection with the show allowed her to truly honor its legacy.
A Star-Studded Lineup: Miley Joins Musical Legends
While Miley was undoubtedly one of the evening’s biggest stars, she was far from alone in her brilliance. The SNL50 concert featured a diverse, star-studded lineup of musical acts from across the decades. Alongside Miley, artists like Arcade Fire, Jelly Roll, Snoop Dogg, and Lady Gaga took the stage, each bringing their own energy and style to the event. The diversity of the performers showcased just how SNL has shaped the musical landscape over its 50-year history.
One of the most unexpected and delightful moments of the night came when Lady Gaga, known for her unpredictability, sang “Dick in the Box,” a hilarious and beloved SNL sketch from The Lonely Island that first aired in 2006. Gaga’s performance brought the house down and reminded everyone why SNL continues to be a cultural touchstone.
The night also included performances from Nirvana with Post Malone, Jack White, Eddie Vedder, Robyn, and David Byrne, who made headlines with an unforgettable rendition of “Dancing On My Own” alongside Robyn. This high-energy performance had the crowd dancing and singing along, reminding everyone of the power of live music and the special connection that SNL has forged with artists over the years.
Miley’s Tribute to Lorne Michaels and the Heart of the Celebration
Throughout the night, it was clear that the 50th anniversary celebration was about more than just the music. It was a chance to pay tribute to SNL’s incredible legacy, to Lorne Michaels, and to the talented people who have contributed to the show’s success. Miley’s dedication to Lorne Michaels during her performance of “Flowers” served as a poignant reminder of just how much the show means to so many.
The SNL50 concert wasn’t just a celebration of the past, but also a reflection of the present and future of music and comedy. With Miley Cyrus at the forefront, the night was an emotional, musical, and visual feast, filled with moments that will be talked about for years to come.
A Night to Remember
The SNL50 concert was a historic event that brought together some of the most iconic performers and fans in television and music history. Miley Cyrus, with her powerful voice, stunning looks, and deep connection to the show, delivered a performance that will be remembered as one of the highlights of the evening. From the red carpet to the stage, Miley was at the center of a celebration that honored 50 years of Saturday Night Live. As the event closed, it was clear that SNL remains as influential and groundbreaking as ever, and Miley’s presence at this landmark occasion only added to its legendary status.
