'SNL' 50: 10 Dazzling A-Listers That Set The Red Carpet on Fire

Published 02/17/2025, 1:06 AM EST

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Saturday Night Live(SNL) has been a staple in pop culture for half a century now, and with its 50th anniversary comes a celebration of not just the show’s iconic sketches, but the dazzling stars who have graced its red carpet. From A-listers to cultural icons, SNL has never been short of stars who can turn heads. But which of the stars stole the show? Who made the biggest splash on the fashion front and got everyone talking?

As you look at the glitz, the glamour, and the unforgettable arrivals, one question remains: who truly set the red carpet on fire? Whether it is a jaw-dropping gown or a wild statement look, these stunning celebs have set the bar high, giving viewers a reason to tune in beyond the sketches.

Jenna Ortega

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Jenna Ortega caused a stir at the 50th anniversary, arriving in a bold sheer top and short black shorts that perfectly matched her edgy yet chic vibe. Famously known for her starring roles in Wednesday and Scream, she brought a fresh, modern twist to the red carpet. Her outfit was not just a fashion statement—it was a nod to her rising star power. 

As the cameras flashed, Ortega blended effortlessly into the star-studded crowd, proving she is a force to be reckoned with both on-screen and in the fashion world.

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Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian returned to SNL's 50th-anniversary special in her iconic style, walking the red carpet in a show-stopping silver gown that glimmered under the lights. She did not just steal the spotlight with her style, her comedic chops shone through, too! Joining Kristen Wiig and the gang in a hilarious Dooneese sketch, Kardashian got playfully spanked by Wiig, adding a twist to the wild sketch. It was a mix of glitz, glam, and plenty of laughs, making it an iconic moment for SNL’s anniversary!

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus brought her fiery energy to the celebration, stealing the show in a striking black tuxedo dress that screamed rockstar chic. From her powerhouse tribute to Sinéad O'Connor, performing 'Nothing Compares 2 U' with Brittany Howard, to a red carpet look that turned heads, Miley Cyrus showed exactly why she's a showstopper. The evening was definitely one for the books, with Cyrus reminding everyone why she is an A-lister to watch!

Scarlett Johansson and Colin Jost

Scarlett Johansson and Colin Jost are the ultimate red carpet power couple- looking sharp and having a blast while doing it! At SNL's 50th, they were the picture of perfection! With Johansson dazzling in a glittering dress and Colin rocking a sleek black suit. Scarlett Johansson also reunited with the Maharelle Sisters in a hilarious sketch parodying The Lawrence Welk Show. But it was their playful banter that really stole the spotlight, whether it was Colin cracking cheeky jokes or Scarlett rolling her eyes at him, their chemistry was undeniable!

Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively

When Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively walked into the SNL 50th celebration, they owned the entrance! Blake Lively sparkled in a dazzling silver gown, her smile outshining even the sequins, while Reynolds looked every bit the charming leading man in his classic tux. Their arrival was making headlines and turning heads as it marked their first public appearance together since the legal drama with Justin Baldoni. Despite all the tension, they were all smiles, sharing jokes and trading playful banter with fellow stars.

Ryan Reynolds even made light of the situation when Amy Poehler shifted attention to him, showing that even legal drama cannot bring down this power couple’s spirits.

Pete Davidson

Pete Davidson brought his trademark humor and charm to SNL's 50th anniversary special, leaving fans in stitches. He returned as his iconic character, Chad, in a hilarious sketch with Laraine Newman, where he stripped down to show off his tattoos in an act that humorously parodied his actual tattoo removal process. 

Davidson's sense of humor came through as he confidently shared how things were going well for him, including positive movie reviews. His unforgettable, offbeat presence reminded everyone why Davidson is a beloved fan favorite, pairing comedy with his own life story in the most Pete Davidson way possible.

Dakota Johnson

Dakota Johnson's presence at the SNL celebration was like a breath of fresh air. She arrived in a sleek, black dress that exuded understated glamour. The dress, with its clean lines and minimalist silhouette, allowed Johnson's own beauty to take center stage. It was a long way from some of the more elaborate outfits on the red carpet, but that was precisely its charm. It felt like a reminder of her past SNL appearances, where she has always brought a cool, collected vibe.  This look felt like a continuation of that persona – effortless, chic, and undeniably captivating.   

Tina Frey

At SNL's 50th anniversary special, Tina Fey’s hosting moment was nothing short of iconic. She co-hosted with her longtime friend and fellow SNL alum, Amy Poehler, bringing their hilarious chemistry back to the spotlight. They had impeccable comedic timing as they revisited some of their most memorable sketches, including their classic Weekend Update bits. Fey's sharp tongue and quick wit were on display as she toasted the legacy of the show that she helped shape, getting all the laughs and applause. 

Adam Sandler & Jackie Sandler

At the star-studded 50th anniversary, Adam Sandler and his wife, Jackie, walked the red carpet style. Sandler, known for his legendary SNL sketches and unforgettable characters, brought his signature charm, while Jackie stunned in a chic ensemble that perfectly complemented her husband’s laid-back vibe. 

Having been a member of the SNL cast, Sandler's tribute to his late friends—Chris Farley and Phil Hartman, touched hearts, leaving everyone misty-eyed. From being fired in his early days to returning as a celebrated icon, Sandler’s journey with SNL is a full circle of comedy and emotion.

Sabrina Carpenter

Sabrina Carpenter absolutely sparkled at SNL’s 50th anniversary special, proving she has got the perfect mix of talent and charm to light up any stage. She kicked things off with Paul Simon for a smooth rendition of 'Homeward Bound', throwing in a cheeky comment about not even being born when Simon first sang it. She then dove into a comedy with the fan-favorite Domingo and His Two Hot Brothers sketch, where she hilariously parodied Taylor Swift’s 'You Belong With Me'

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Who knew the 50th anniversary would feature a Carpenter-made highlight that left everyone laughing and cheering for more? With this appearance, she definitely set the bar high for every future SNL red carpet! So, from daring gowns to perfectly tailored suits, each star added their own flair to the iconic event. As the show continues to evolve, one thing is certain—SNL’s red carpet will always be a place where fashion and fame collide. 

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Which star made the biggest impact in your opinion? Let us know in the comments below!

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Akshaya Deeksha

199 articles

Akshaya Deeksha is an Entertainment Writer at NetflixJunkie. With her passion to explore the evolving world of entertainment and her journalistic sense, she specializes in cinematic storytelling and Hollywood developments. Her expertise in lifestyle writing allows her to connect with readers through relatable content.

Edited By: Itti Mahajan

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