Paul McCartney Closes Out “SNL 50” with an Iconic Beatles Medley — A Night of Music, Memories, and Magic
New York City was electric Sunday night as “Saturday Night Live” marked its golden anniversary with a star-studded celebration that honored not just its 50-year legacy of comedy and cultural commentary, but also its deep roots in music history. And no moment hit harder—or more beautifully—than Sir Paul McCartney taking the stage to close the show.
At 82, McCartney proved once again that age is no match for artistry. The living legend delivered a soul-stirring rendition of The Beatles’ Abbey Road finale: the unforgettable “Golden Slumbers / Carry That Weight / The End” medley. His voice, weathered with time yet rich with emotion, carried the weight of decades of musical history, ending the show on an exquisitely nostalgic note. It was more than just a performance—it was a moment of collective cultural memory coming full circle.
“SNL 50” wasn’t just about looking back. It was a night that bridged generations, and nowhere was that clearer than in the show’s opening duet: Paul Simon, a longtime SNL favorite, joined forces with rising star Sabrina Carpenter for a heartfelt performance of “Homeward Bound.” The song, originally performed by Simon alongside George Harrison during a classic 1976 SNL episode, felt newly relevant and timeless all at once.
The lineup was stacked with powerful musical moments. Miley Cyrus and Brittany Howard stunned with a searing rendition of Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U,” transforming the stage into a place of raw vulnerability and strength. Lil Wayne teamed up with The Roots for a high-octane medley of his biggest hits, blending hip-hop with live instrumentation in a way that only SNL could pull off.
And if that wasn’t enough musical magic for one night, fans of rock royalty were treated to a surprise reunion in Ireland just days before: Robert Plant and Donovan sharing the stage for a spellbinding duet of “Season of the Witch.” It was a reminder that music history doesn’t just live in the past—it keeps evolving, when the right voices come together.
Adding to the sense of musical legacy, Beatles offspring James McCartney and Sean Lennon—sons of Paul and John—recently released a co-written song that’s caught the attention of longtime fans. It’s a touching continuation of a partnership that once changed the world.
From rock royalty to rap legends, and rising stars to enduring icons, “SNL 50” was more than a celebration—it was a cultural time capsule and a powerful reminder of the music that has shaped generations. And with McCartney’s final notes still echoing in the hearts of viewers, it’s safe to say: some endings are only the beginning.
