The entertainment world came together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of “Saturday Night Live” on February 16, 2025. The event, “SNL 50: The Homecoming Concert,” was packed with comedy legends and unforgettable moments.
One of the biggest talking points? Jim Belushi’s striking transformation.
Fans Reacted to Jim Belushi’s Transformation
GettyJim Belushi, who was part of 33 SNL episodes from 1983 to 1985, according to IMDb, made a rare public appearance and people barely recognized him. Dressed in a sharp black suit, he looked noticeably slimmer, with a graying beard that added to his new look. Reported by Parade, his transformation quickly sparked conversation, with fans and media taking note of his drastic change.
Some fans were shocked by the change, while others praised what appeared to be a healthier lifestyle.
“I love that Jim Belushi is there! He looks great,” one person commented on thesnlnetork’s Instagram post. Another gushed, “Look at @jim_belushi looking handsome! ♥️♥️♥️.”
“Jim Belushi looks GREAT,” another fan commented.
Belushi Joined Chevy Chase, Will Ferrell, Tiny Fey & Other Stars for the SNL 50 Celebration
The anniversary special was a massive reunion, bringing together past and present cast members. Hosted by Willie Geist and SNL alum Leslie Jones, the event kicked off with a pre-show, followed by a three-hour live special on NBC.
The night featured appearances from icons across decades, including Chevy Chase, Jane Curtin, Eddie Murphy, Martin Short, Will Ferrell, Chris Rock, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Kate McKinnon, and Pete Davidson. Seeing different generations of comedians share the stage was a reminder of just how much SNL has shaped comedy.
“It was the toughest thing I’d ever done. Even tougher than divorce,” Belushi told WJAR earlier in February. “It was the M.A.S.H. unit of comedy. You were in a grind with high pressure, high competition, and to be able to bring your craft and skill through all that pressure made everything easy. … It was like I got my doctorate degree in comedy.”
While Belushi made his name in sketch comedy, his career has spanned everything from sitcoms like “According to Jim” to action films such as “K-9” and “Red Heat.” According to IMDb, he has 155 acting credits since 1978, with six upcoming projects.
More recently, he’s stepped into the cannabis industry with his reality series “Growing Belushi,” where he documents his journey as a legal marijuana farmer. Belushi’s Farm cannabis products are available to purchase in 16 states, according to the website.
Where to Watch
Belushi’s return to the SNL stage was a full-circle moment, not just for his career but for fans who’ve followed him for years. His transformation might have surprised people, but it also proves he’s still evolving — just like SNL itself.
If you missed the event, “SNL 50: The Homecoming Concert” is available to stream on Peacock.
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Jim Belushi’s Transformation Steals the Spotlight at ‘SNL 50’