Volkswagen & NBCUniversal Recreate SNL’s “The Californians” with ID. Buzz

Volkswagen has teamed up with NBCUniversal to celebrate a momentous occasion: the 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live (SNL). As an official partner of the milestone season, Volkswagen has unveiled a special co-branded spot featuring its all-electric VW ID. Buzz in a reimagined version of one of the show’s most beloved sketches, The Californians.

The spot brings back original SNL cast members Fred Armisen, Bill Hader, and Kristen Wiig, reprising their iconic roles in the satirical soap opera-inspired sketch. Known for its exaggerated California accents and comedic references to navigating the region’s highways, The Californians perfectly aligns with the ID. Buzz’s strong connection to the Golden State’s car culture. Volkswagen’s modern electric take on the classic Microbus is a natural fit for this nostalgic yet forward-looking tribute.

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“Volkswagen’s recent 75th anniversary in the U.S. and Saturday Night Live’s 50th season are milestone moments for two iconic brands,” said Rachael Zaluzec, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience and Brand Marketing, Volkswagen of America. “‘The Californians’ is as synonymous with SNL as the ID. Buzz is with California, making it the perfect vehicle to bring back a sketch that resonates with so many. Especially in the wake of this recent tragedy that has affected communities across California, we believe in the healing power of comedy.”

The special Californians-inspired spot featuring the ID. Buzz made its debut during SNL50: The Homecoming Concert.

Volkswagen’s Commitment to California Firefighters

Beyond entertainment, Volkswagen is using this opportunity to give back to the California community that plays such a central role in the campaign. The automaker has pledged a financial contribution to the California Fire Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides critical support to first responders and their families.

“With the leadership and oversight of professional firefighters, the California Fire Foundation provides immediate relief to evacuees and firefighters whose lives are risked and upended in times of disaster, resources to prepare firefighters and communities to prevent and combat firestorms that devastate our state, and emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters, firefighters, and the communities we protect,” said Brian K. Rice, Chair of the California Fire Foundation. “We are grateful to Volkswagen for their generosity and their commitment to support firefighters and the communities we serve.”

As Volkswagen wraps up its own 75th anniversary in the U.S., this partnership with Saturday Night Live and its commitment to supporting first responders further solidify the brand’s connection to culture, community, and progress.