The UK adaptation of Saturday Night Live could cross into territory its American counterpart cannot.
SNL UK‘s network Sky notes that the British sketch show won’t face the same restrictions on swearing as the U.S. version.
In a recently posted FAQ, Sky sheds light on the expected content standards for the new series. Speaking on its age rating, the network says the show “may differ slightly from the US version and their airing rules.”
The network explains that UK television “allows swearing after the 9pm watershed, while the US version does not allow swearing at any time on network television.”
“As a result there is scope for the show to expand beyond what is allowed on their US counterpart,” Sky adds.
That “9pm watershed” is a directive of the United Kingdom’s Office of Communications (Ofcom). Ofcom dictates that “material unsuitable for children should not, in general, be shown before 2100 or after 0530” on free-to-air television broadcasts.
The American SNL’s East Coast broadcast falls within the FCC’s “safe harbor” hours of 10pm to 6am, where it’s not illegal to air profanity, but NBC enforces its own standards and practices that prohibit foul language. Still—as Miss Eggy can attest—the occasional slip does make it on air.
The show’s “live” coast-to-coast airing at 8:30pm PT is carried on a slight delay, giving censors time to mute audio and/or cut video to avoid running afoul of FCC rules.
When the U.S. version of SNL airs in the UK, it’s rated “15”—meaning it’s recommended for viewers aged 15 and up. In the U.S., Saturday Night Live typically carries the equivalent TV-14 rating.
With SNL UK still in development, the adaptation has not yet been given an official rating.
Sky executive Philip Edgar-Jones recently confirmed the show has found its showrunner in James Longman, former executive producer of The Late Late Show with James Corden. Casting is underway as the show prepares for its launch next year.
Saturday Night Live UK will premiere on Sky Max and streaming service Now in 2026.
