Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon Kicked Off ‘SNL50: The Anniversary Special,’ Sparking a Stir

The performance of Carpenter and Simon during “SNL50” has become a focal point of public discourse, with numerous online commentators asserting that the singer and actress was the sole highlight of the duet.

On February 16, 2025, musical sensation Sabrina Carpenter took the stage alongside renowned artist Paul Simon to inaugurate “SNL50: The Anniversary Special.” While the live audience responded enthusiastically to their performance, viewers online expressed a different sentiment, with many criticizing Simon’s vocal delivery.

Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon performing during “SNL50: The Anniversary Special” on February 16, 2025. | Source: Getty Images

Positioned prominently on the “Saturday Night Live” stage, Sabrina Carpenter captivated the audience in a stunning off-the-shoulder, sparkly fringe gown crafted from semi-sheer fabric, smiling and waving at the crowd. Meanwhile, Simon absorbed the vibrant atmosphere, gazing out at the audience while clutching his guitar.

Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon right before performing “Homeward Bound” together, posted on February 17, 2025. | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live

After the audience erupted in cheers, the two artists exchanged friendly remarks. Carpenter highlighted Simon’s legendary status by gesturing towards him, to which Simon responded, “Ladies and gentlemen, this is Sabrina Carpenter.”

“This is the one and only Paul Simon,” Carpenter replied. Dressed in a striking velvet lilac suit jacket, a purple top, and black trousers, Simon then introduced the song they were about to perform, reminiscing, “I sang this song with George Harrison on ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 1976.”
Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon during their performance. | Source: Getty Images

In a humorous moment, Carpenter pointed out that neither she nor her parents had been alive during that era, which elicited laughter from the audience. Simon responded, “I’m glad they’re getting a chance to hear it tonight then,” before he began to play his guitar.

Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon on stage during “SNL50: The Anniversary Special.” | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live

The duo delivered a stunning interpretation of Simon and Garfunkel’s timeless song “Homeward Bound.” Simon initiated the performance with his deep, melodic voice resonating throughout the venue as Carpenter patiently awaited her turn. Eventually, the “Nonsense” artist joined him, harmonizing her rich vocals with his.

Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon singing together. | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live

At one point in the duet, Carpenter took center stage, showcasing her vocal talent with a solo segment before Simon resumed singing alongside her.

Sabrina Carpenter singing on stage. | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live

Despite the artists’ passionate performance, which received enthusiastic applause from the audience, reactions on social media were less favorable. Many users expressed the sentiment that Carpenter outperformed Simon.

“The song was carried by her,” remarked one Instagram user, while another added, “With the poor arrangement and Paul Simon’s diminished vocal ability, Sabrina’s singing was the only highlight, and I’m not even a fan of hers.”

Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon singing “Homeward Bound.” | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live

“This would have been exceptional without Paul Simon….and I do appreciate his work. Off-key and too slow,” commented another individual. “Paul Simon lol Very overrated. Wake me when it’s just Sabrina singing,” expressed another user.
Paul Simon’s live performance on stage. | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live

An observer commended Carpenter’s artistry, stating, “She demonstrated remarkable maturity by allowing him to take the lead initially, seamlessly blending into the song… it brought tears to my eyes due to the respect she exhibited towards him.”
Sabrina Carpenter captured in photographs on the event’s red carpet. | Source: Getty Images

In contrast, a social media user remarked, “I appreciate both artists, but this rendition of ‘Homeward Bound’ was not executed well. It felt sluggish and somewhat awkward at times.”

“It was enjoyable to see Paul, but I felt it fell short. With McCartney present, perhaps he could have performed in George Harrison’s stead. That was one of the most outstanding musical performances ever,” a Facebook user commented, alluding to the iconic 1976 “SNL” performance Simon referenced earlier.
Another individual expressed, “It was dreadful. Unfortunately, the only thing worse was McCartney’s lack of pitch,” while another echoed similar thoughts, stating, “Extremely disappointing… the two voices did not harmonize—certain sections were terrible—it seemed as if they recorded it in one take without any rehearsal, and it was evident… [sic]”

This recent feedback follows Carpenter’s notable appearance at the 2025 Grammy Awards, where she performed on February 2 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Sabrina Carpenter performing at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California on February 2, 2025. | Source: Getty Images

While her performance was undoubtedly engaging, it was the renowned singer Taylor Swift who captured the audience’s attention with her animated dancing, eliciting mixed reactions from online viewers.
A netizen’s comment regarding Taylor Swift, shared on February 3, 2025. | Source: Facebook/EntertainmentTonight

Swift made her entrance at the ceremony in a dazzling red, sleeveless mini-dress, her golden brown hair cascading freely. During the event, she was observed in the audience, swaying to Carpenter’s rendition of “Please
Taylor Swift was observed dancing at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards. | Source: Getty Images

At one point, she brought her hands together in a gesture reminiscent of prayer while swaying to the rhythm. Shortly thereafter, she turned to her long-time collaborator and producer, Jack Antonoff, who had worked on the track with Sabrina Carpenter, and enthusiastically shook his shoulders.

A netizen commented on Taylor Swift’s actions on February 3, 2025. | Source: Instagram/entertainmenttonight

On Instagram, one user remarked, “Can’t she just let someone else have the spotlight?” Another user added, “Entitled enough to think she doesn’t have to sit like everyone else.”

Taylor Swift reveling in the moment at the 2025 Grammys. | Source: Getty Images

Facebook users also expressed their opinions, with one stating, “inappropriate [sic] for her to draw attention to herself while Sabrina is performing. Immaturity.” Another commented, “There she go’s [sic] stealing the spotlight.”

Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter captured together in a photograph. | Source: Getty Images

Reactions on X (formerly Twitter) were mixed. While one user criticized Swift’s behavior, stating, “there ain’t a woman out there as attention seeking as TS [sic],” others came to the defense of the “Bad Blood” artist.

One post read, “i love how she’s shamelessly herself even though she knows there’s cameras on her at all times. her undying support for her friends is so cute [sic].” Another simply remarked, “she’s [sic] so cute and supportive.”

Sabrina Carpenter performing live during the 67th Grammy Awards. | Source: Getty Images

As Carpenter celebrated a significant milestone in her career, Swift’s animated response became an unexpected focal point. Regardless of public opinion, both artists left a memorable impression on the 2025 Grammy Awards.