The Delightful Way Dan Aykroyd Watched SNL's 50th Anniversary Special
The original SNL cast member sang his praises for the recently-aired special on social media.
Dan Aykroyd couldn't attend the SNL 50th anniversary special on February 16 in person — but thankfully, he didn't miss a second of the music or the laughter.
In a heartfelt February 19 social media post, Aykroyd let fans know that although he was not there physically, he was there in spirit throughout the weekend. Just like us, he took in SNL50: The Homecoming Concert and SNL50: The Anniversary Special from the comfort of his home alongside his family.
"All Heads up toasting triumphant SNL 50th," Aykroyd wrote on X. "Advantage of not attending - got to see every second of concert and show on TV. Quote from my children: 'Look at daddy's smile!' Had it from start to finish. Congratulations Lorne. Well done as usual."
Some of the weekend's best moments were the look-backs focusing on Aykroyd's era of SNL, and we're happy he caught every second of the love.
When was Dan Aykroyd on Saturday Night Live?
Aykroyd was one of the original cast members — and writers — of SNL, appearing in the first season in 1975 until his departure in 1979. Although he was only on four seasons of the series, his impact cannot be understated. He left an indelible imprint on SNL thanks to unforgettable performances that will live on forever.
Dan Aykroyd's kids and life as a father
Aykroyd shares three adult daughters with actress Donna Dixon, Danielle, Belle, and Stella. He and Dixon separated in 2022. In a 2024 interview with People, Aykroyd opened up about his relationship with his kids.
"There's an expression, 'You're only as happy as your unhappiest child,'" Aykroyd explained. "I'm a control freak and of course I want to control their emotions, their reactions, whatever happens to them. But life is not like that, is it?"
As he's gotten older, he's learned to "let go" a little more, giving him a unique perspective on his kids.
"I'm proud of my children, very proud of them," he said. "They turned out to be compassionate, really, really compassionate and centered human beings with the right view of humanity."
Below, read how to catch up on all the SNL50 specials that aired in February:
