In 2025, with its 50th anniversary, SNL wanted to celebrate with a special episode that was a cultural phenomenon, bringing together old and new fans alike. But fanatics of the show had a question: Where was Dan Aykroyd? 

Saturday Night Live (SNL) is a long running comedy sketch. Since 1975, it has aired 20 episodes each year. Dan Aykroyd was one of the original cast members and became one of the biggest writers of the show back in the 70s. With other original cast members such as Chevy Chase and Laraine Newman attending the anniversary special, his absence was widely noted.

Aykroyd was part of the show from 1975 to 1979 and was the only living original cast member not present at SNL 50. His absence was especially conspicuous because he participated in the SNL 40th anniversary show 10 years ago. 

Despite not attending, Aykroyd was enthusiastic about the 50th anniversary and the show itself. On X, he posted multiple times, once congratulating manager Lorne Michaels and once noting that his kids noticed his never-fading smile.

He spoke highly of the show, writing, “All Heads up toasting triumphant SNL 50th.” A representative stated he did not join his SNL season one alumnus due to prior personal commitments, but no further details were provided.