Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson created a buzz by pretending to abruptly leave the Saturday Night Live 50th anniversary concert in a humorous bit instigated by Jimmy Fallon.

The star-studded event saw several past and present members of Saturday Night Live coming together to commemorate the show’s storied history, making it a lively celebration filled with humor and antics from Hanks, as the Guardian reports.

The event took place at the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York. It gathered numerous current and former cast members of SNL, as well as other celebrities who had previously hosted the popular late-night show. Amy Poehler, Eddie Murphy, and several others made appearances, adding to the celebration atmosphere.

Iconic Venue Hosts Extravagant Celebration

Hanks is a celebrated member of SNL's illustrious Five-Timers Club, having hosted the show ten times. During the event, a humorous moment was crafted when Hanks and Wilson humorously "stormed out" following an announcement made by Fallon. The evening was not to feature the conferring of any awards, as was clarified by Fallon.

The bit started when Fallon informed the audience that the evening was purely for celebration and would not include the presentation of any awards. This announcement seemed to have confused some, prompting Fallon to clarify the situation humorously on stage.

“Apparently, there's been some confusion. This is just a concert. We’re not giving out any awards tonight. So I just want to make sure that everyone knows that,” Fallon said, adding humor to the formal announcement.

Jimmy Fallon Lightens Atmosphere

The lighthearted walkout by Hanks and Wilson soon became a topic of amusement. Fallon addressed the moment, noting, “Tom? Rita? We lost Tom Hanks and Rita. Sorry. It wasn’t their fault.” His comedic tone helped to diffuse any tension while keeping the celebration light-hearted.

Videos capturing this playful exit quickly circulated online, contributing to the event's highlight reel and entertaining fans who couldn’t attend. This mock storm-out moment became one of the evening's most talked-about instances, showcasing the humor that has become synonymous with SNL.

A notable aspect of the concert was the presence of some distinguished guest hosts such as Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson, and Dave Chappelle. Their appearances added to the nostalgic touch of the evening, celebrating the show’s decades-long influence on comedy and culture.

Documentary Series Celebrates Legacy

While Bill Hader and Dan Aykroyd were absent from this grand commemoration, Aykroyd expressed his enthusiasm for the anniversary through social media, giving a nod to the show's enduring legacy.

Complementing the live event, Peacock is offering a four-part documentary series titled SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night to provide fans with a broader look at the show's history. This series invites viewers into the behind-the-scenes magic and moments that have defined SNL's impact over the years.

SNL’s 50th anniversary celebration not only reminisced about the past but also looked to the future with continued enthusiasm and vitality. Those who took part contributed unique anecdotes and performances that celebrated their involvement with the iconic show.

Nostalgic Connections Among Participants

The blend of comedic legends, rising stars, and beloved figures like Tom Hanks made this festivity an enriching tribute to the spirit of Saturday Night Live. As participants reminisced and reconnected, the event became a testament to the timeless place SNL holds in the realm of entertainment.

Over the years, SNL has not only entertained but has also launched numerous careers and driven comedy innovations. The anniversary event served as a testament to its lasting influence and the camaraderie among the diverse talents who have graced its stage.

This concert, along with the documentary series, allows fans and newcomers alike to appreciate the history and heritage SNL has cultivated in its five-decade journey.

A Tribute to Comedy

Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson's comic sketch contributed to the celebratory mood of SNL's 50th anniversary, understating their storied connection with the show. Their participation echoed the playful yet significant contributions they made over the years.

Ultimately, the SNL 50th anniversary concert was a celebratory look at a program that has remained a fixture in American culture. With humor at its core, the event honored all those who have contributed to its longstanding success.

By capturing both the spontaneity of comedy and the warmth of nostalgia, the concert and its highlights reminded participants and fans why SNL continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of audiences everywhere.