SNL icon Dana Carvey frequently appeared on Studio 8H this season, including as President Joe Biden and his Church Lady character. However, he was absent from the ‘SNL50: The Anniversary Special’ due to a “bad flu.” In an interview with AV Club last November, Aykroyd had expressed conditions for his involvement in the special, but ultimately decided not to attend.
Other notable cast members who didn’t appear included Bill Hader and original star Dan Aykroyd. A rep explained that Hader was unable to make it due to a “longstanding scheduling conflict,” while Aykroyd’s decision was attributed to “prior commitments.” Notable appearances were made by Garrett Morris, Laraine Newman, Jane Curtin, and Chevy Chase.
Aykryd had expressed enthusiasm for the special, but specified his participation would depend on how he could serve the show and its legacy. The event also saw the absence of Colin Quinn and Dennis Miller, with Quinn taking up a standup gig in Raleigh, N.C., on February 16.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/why-dana-carvey-bill-hader-dan-aykroyd-not-snl-50-1236311883