Live from New York! “Saturday Night Live” celebrates 50 seasons on TV. The iconic NBC sketch show debuted in 1975 with George Carlin as the host and musical guests Billy Preston and Janis Ian. In the early years, the show brought counterculture humor to young audiences through the Not Ready for Prime Time Players.

This season, the show continues its legacy with a primetime special airing on Sunday, featuring Jean Smart as the host. Throughout the years, “SNL” has seen breakout stars like Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Will Ferrell.

John Belushi, famous for his roles in “Animal House” and The Blues Brothers, left “SNL” in 1979 to pursue other projects. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1982 due to a drug overdose. Gilda Radner, known for characters like Roseanne Roseannadanna, stayed with the show for five years before moving on to Broadway. She passed away in 1989 after battling ovarian cancer.

Chevy Chase, the original “Weekend Update” anchor, left the show early but went on to have a successful career in movies like “Caddyshack” and the “Vacation” series. Laraine Newman, known for her characters like Connie Conehead, struggled with addiction but later found success in film and voice acting.

Dan Aykroyd, part of The Blues Brothers duo with Belushi, found success post-“SNL” with hits like “Ghostbusters” and co-founding the House of Blues chain. Jane Curtin, a master of deadpan humor, left “SNL” after five seasons and went on to win two Emmys for her sitcom work.

Garrett Morris, the oldest member of the original cast, brought memorable characters like Chico Escuela to the show. He continued acting in various TV shows after leaving “SNL.” The show has been a launching pad for many comedic talents over its 50-year run.