Wet Leg on SNL UK: Watch Performances of “Mangetout” & “Catch These Fists”
British indie-rock band Wet Leg made their debut appearance as the musical guest on the premiere episode of Saturday Night Live UK on March 21, performing both “Mangetout” and “Catch These Fists” alongside host Tina Fey. The launch of the UK-based iteration of the long-running sketch comedy demonstrate marks a significant expansion for the Saturday Night Live franchise, and Wet Leg’s performance provided a notable musical highlight.
A UK First for a Beloved Franchise
The inaugural episode of Saturday Night Live UK aired on Sky TV in the United Kingdom and is now available on Peacock in the US. This marks the first time the iconic show has had a dedicated UK-based series, signaling a strategic move by NBCUniversal to cater to a broader international audience. Tina Fey, a veteran of the original Saturday Night Live, helmed the hosting duties, bringing her signature wit to the new format. You can find clips of Fey discussing her role in the premiere episode on Sky TV’s Facebook page.
The series’ debut cast includes Animashaun, Ayoade Bamgboye, Larry Dean, Celeste Dring, Fouracres, Ania Magliano, Annabel Marlow, Al Nash, Jack Shep, Emma Sidi, and Paddy Young, a diverse ensemble poised to deliver a fresh comedic perspective. The show’s expansion comes as the original Saturday Night Live, currently in its 51st season, is on hiatus. The next episode, scheduled for April 4, will feature Jack Black as host and Jack White as the musical guest.
Wet Leg’s Momentum Continues
Wet Leg’s appearance on SNL UK arrives on the heels of a successful period for the band. Their most recent album, Moisturizer, released in 2025, garnered critical acclaim and a nomination for three awards at the 2026 Grammys, including Best Alternative Music Album and Best Alternative Music Performance. The album followed their acclaimed 2022 self-titled debut, solidifying their position as a leading force in the indie-rock scene. Moisturizer similarly landed a spot at No. 36 on Pitchfork’s list of The 50 Best Albums of 2025, further cementing its impact.
The band, known for their deadpan lyrics and catchy melodies, has quickly gained a dedicated following. Their music often explores themes of anxiety, self-doubt, and the absurdities of modern life, resonating with a broad audience. Their performance on SNL UK provided a platform to introduce their unique sound to a new viewership.
Expanding the SNL Universe
The launch of Saturday Night Live UK is part of a broader strategy by NBCUniversal to expand the SNL brand internationally. The show’s format, known for its topical sketches and celebrity guests, has proven adaptable to different cultural contexts. The UK version aims to capture the same spirit while incorporating local humor, and perspectives. Jamie Dornan and Riz Ahmed are slated to host the next two episodes, with musical guests Wolf Alice and Kasabian, respectively. This lineup suggests a commitment to showcasing both established and emerging talent.
The original Saturday Night Live has a long history of launching the careers of comedians and musicians. Recent musical guests on the US show have included Harry Styles, Gorillaz, Geese, and A$AP Rocky, demonstrating its continued relevance in the entertainment industry. The UK edition hopes to replicate this success, providing a launching pad for British comedic and musical talent.
What’s on the Horizon for SNL UK
The procedural rollout of Saturday Night Live UK will be closely watched by industry observers. The success of the initial episodes will likely influence future programming decisions and potential expansion to other international markets. The show’s availability on Peacock in the US is a key component of NBCUniversal’s streaming strategy, aiming to attract and retain subscribers. The performance of the series will be a significant data point as the company evaluates its investment in international content.
Looking ahead, the show’s ability to consistently deliver relevant and engaging content will be crucial. The UK’s vibrant comedy scene provides a rich pool of talent, but maintaining a high standard of quality will require careful curation and creative execution. The upcoming episodes with Jamie Dornan and Riz Ahmed will offer further insight into the show’s direction and potential.
You can watch the premiere episode, featuring Wet Leg’s performance, on Peacock. Further details on upcoming episodes and guests can be found on YouTube and Sky TV’s official channels.
Fans interested in Wet Leg’s music can explore their discography on Pitchfork and other music platforms.
The series is also available to stream on Dailymotion.