Paul McCartney closes Saturday Night Live anniversary special with Abbey Road medley - video

17 February 2025, 13:00

Sir Paul McCartney wows a star-packed Saturday Night Live.

Saturday Night Live is an American institution, and one that currently celebrating its 50th birthday with a year-long anniversary season.

Sir Paul McCartney is a global institution, having conquered the world of music as a member of The Beatles, Wings and as a solo superstar.

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The two collided at the weekend when Sir Paul rocked up to SNL50 – a three-hour anniversary special – to play one of The Beatles' most beloved bits of music.

Sat behind the piano and backed by his full touring band, McCartney powered through the closing coda of Abbey Road, the stunning medley of 'Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight/The End'.

Paul McCartney: Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight/The End (Live) – SNL50

McCartney has appeared on SNL a number of times over the years, featuring as a performer in 1980, 1993, 2010 and 2012 and also popping up for cameos in 2006, 2013 and 2015.

He also appeared on the 40th anniversary special ten years ago, playing 'Maybe I'm Amazed' after being introduced by Rolling Stones rival Keith Richards.

While he was in the area for this year's special, McCartney recently performed surprise shows at the Bowery Ballroom, with tickets only available in person earlier that day.

Paul McCartney wasn't the only superstar guest on SNL50: The Anniversary Special.

Other celebrities on the show included former castmembers Eddie Murphy, Mike Myers, Amy Poehler, Kate McKinnon and Kristen Wiig.

The show also opened with a rare appearance from Paul Simon, who sang the Simon & Garfunkel classic 'Homeward Bound' as a duet with Sabrina Carpenter.