Saturday Night Live has officially crossed the pond – and if the reaction to its debut is anything to go by, SNL UK is already off to a seriously strong start.
It's inaugural episode last Saturday 21 March saw host Tina Fey lead the British take on the long-running US sketch show (and whose name should be an honorary mention in our list of the greatest SNL hosts of all time). And it seems the internet were quick to praise its mix of classic SNL elements – live sketches, a "Weekend Update"-style segment, and rotating hosts – all reworked with a distinctly British sense of humour.
What really seemed to click though, was the cast itself. This group of 11 performers brought a mix of stand-up, acting and writing backgrounds that made the show feel fresh. But unless you're down with the comic scene of Greater Britain, these names might be as-yet unfamiliar to you. So what better time – ahead of this weekend's second episode hosted by Jamie Dornan and musical guests Wolf Alice – to get acquainted? Here's our full cast guide to the fresh faces leading the inaugural season of SNL UK.
1. Ayoade Bamgboye
View this post on Instagram
Bamgboye is a fast-rising comedian, writer, and performer with roots in both the U.K. and Nigeria. After leaving a career in advertising, she quickly built momentum on the stand-up circuit, culminating in a Best Newcomer win at the 2025 Edinburgh Comedy Awards for her show Swings and Roundabouts. Her work blends sharp observation with playful experimentation, and she has already written and performed for television, including Channel 4.
2. Hammed Animashaun
View this post on Instagram
Animashaun is an accomplished British actor whose career spans theatre, television, and film. Known for his dynamic stage presence, he earned a Royal Television Society award in 2024 for his comedic performance in Black Ops. He has also appeared in major productions like The Wheel of Time and performed Shakespeare on stage, showcasing a strong foundation in live performance.
3. Emma Sidi
View this post on Instagram
A multi-talented comedian and actor, Sidi is recognised for her character-driven performances. With a background in improv and sketch comedy, she has developed a reputation for creating bold, offbeat personas across stage and screen. Her solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe and beyond highlight her versatility, while TV appearances and competition shows have broadened her audience.
4. Larry Dean
View this post on Instagram
The Scottish comedian is an established name in stand-up, known for his energetic delivery and award-winning material. A former Scottish Comedian of the Year, Dean has performed on major shows like Live at the Apollo. His work often blends personal storytelling with sharp humor, and his success at the Edinburgh Fringe has cemented his reputation as a leading voice in U.K. comedy.
5. Celeste Dring
View this post on Instagram
Dring is an actor, writer, and sketch performer with a strong presence in British comedy who co-created and starred in the BBC sketch series Lazy Susan. She's appeared in several television productions ranging from comedy to drama and while her career began with more traditional acting, she has since carved out a niche in collaborative, character-based comedy.
6. Al Nash
View this post on Instagram
You might have seen Nash online as a comedian and digital creator whose online sketches have amassed tens of millions of views. Alongside his viral success, he is a regular performer on the London comedy circuit and has appeared on major broadcasters like BBC and Channel 4. His work blends internet-savvy humour with live performance experience.
7. Ania Magliano
View this post on Instagram
Magliano is a writer and stand-up comedian with an extensive list of television and radio credits who's contributed to shows like Frankie Boyle’s New World Order and The Emily Atack Show, while also building her own stand-up career with critically recognized Edinburgh Fringe performances. Her style combines sharp writing with a distinctly Gen Z perspective.
8. George Fouracres
View this post on Instagram
The actor-comedian has deep roots in theatre, particularly through his work with Shakespeare’s Globe. Fouracres has performed in numerous classical productions while also developing a career in comedy through the sketch trio Daphne. His background bridges classical acting and contemporary comedy, giving him a unique performance style.
9. Annabel Marlow
View this post on Instagram
Marlow is a trained actor and musical comedian who, after training at prestigious drama schools, gained attention for her one-woman musical comedy show at the Edinburgh Fringe (it sold out its run). Her experience in musical theatre and live comedy allows her to create character-driven performances with a strong musical edge.
10. Jack Shep
View this post on Instagram
Shep is a comedian, writer, and actor who has built his reputation across stand-up, television, and writers’ rooms. A finalist in the BBC New Comedy Awards, he is a regular on the U.K. comedy circuit and has contributed to projects with major production companies. His style leans toward absurd and playful humour – and his impersonation of Princess Di in the SNL UK first episode is already making rounds on the internet.
11. Paddy Young
View this post on Instagram
An actor and comedian whose breakout came with his Edinburgh Comedy Award–nominated debut show Hungry, Horny, Scared, Young has since toured extensively, building a loyal audience with his sharp, self-aware humour.
