SNL Stars to Craft Dream Episodes in New Digital Series 'The Rundown'
Mindy KalingActress, writer, producer, and author of humorous essays on Hollywood and life.
A new digital series, "The Rundown," is set to immerse audiences in the rich history of "Saturday Night Live" by inviting its past and present stars to curate their fantasy episodes. This innovative concept, launched across multiple digital platforms, promises to deliver a fresh perspective on the iconic comedy show, offering fans an unparalleled journey through its most memorable moments and performances.
"The Rundown" Series Unveils SNL's Best, Starting with Colin Jost's Insights
On March 18, 2026, a groundbreaking digital series titled "The Rundown" was introduced, bringing "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) alumni and current cast members together to construct their dream SNL episodes. The series, accessible on Peacock, YouTube, and SNL's social media channels, allows these comedic talents to select their most cherished sketches and musical acts from SNL's impressive 50-year legacy, presenting them on the show's iconic rundown board.
The inaugural episode features "Weekend Update" co-anchor Colin Jost, who delves into the intricate process and inherent challenges of perfecting SNL's cold open sketch. Jost, a seasoned writer for SNL since the 2005-06 season, shares his experiences, noting that crafting an engaging cold open requires exceptional skill to captivate an "ice-cold" audience immediately after the house band's performance. He estimates penning approximately 100 cold opens throughout his tenure. For his personal fantasy episode, Jost chose a notable sketch from Season 34 (2008) that featured Tina Fey and Amy Poehler portraying Sarah Palin and Katie Couric, respectively, in a satirical take on their real-life CBS News interview. This particular sketch was penned by Seth Meyers.
New installments of "The Rundown" will be released on Wednesdays during SNL's off-weeks, continuing through mid-June. Upcoming episodes are slated to showcase an array of SNL luminaries, including Dana Carvey, Mikey Day, Chloe Fineman, Bowen Yang, and Questlove, each sharing their unique selections and insights. The next live broadcast of SNL is scheduled for April 4, with Jack Black set to host and Jack White appearing as the musical guest.
This venture not only celebrates SNL's enduring legacy but also provides an intimate look into the creative minds behind its most beloved moments. It's a testament to the show's lasting impact and its continuous evolution, proving that even after decades, there's always a fresh way to engage with its rich comedic tapestry. For fans, it's an opportunity to revisit classics and discover new favorites through the eyes of those who brought them to life, reinforcing the idea that true comedic genius stands the test of time.

