NBC Unveils Hosts and Musical Guests for Opening Episodes of SNL’s Landmark Season
“Saturday Night Live” is gearing up for its monumental 50th season with an impressive roster of guests and musical performers. On September 18, NBC unveiled the lineup for the first five episodes, promising a star-studded celebration to kick off this historic milestone.
The season premiere on September 28 will feature acclaimed actress Jean Smart as host, marking her SNL debut. “SO EXCITED!!! Bucket list!” Smart, 73, expressed on Instagram, sharing her enthusiasm for the role. Joining Smart on stage will be Jelly Roll, making his SNL debut as the musical guest. The 39-year-old artist expressed his excitement on social media, saying, “The premiere of the 50th season of SNL. BRB going to cry for a few hours and call every family member I have. Bringing therapeutic music to my favorite show ever. God is Good.”
Following the premiere, the second episode will air on October 5, featuring comedian Nate Bargatze as host. Bargatze, who made his SNL hosting debut in October 2023, will be joined by Coldplay, marking their eighth appearance as musical guests on the show.
On October 12, pop superstar Ariana Grande will return as host for the season’s third episode. Grande, who last appeared on SNL as a musical guest in April, will be joined by the legendary Stevie Nicks, who will perform as the musical guest. Nicks, 76, took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce her appearance, writing, “See you October 12th @ncbsnl ✨.”
The episode scheduled for October 19 will see Michael Keaton take the hosting reins. Keaton, known for his roles in “Beetlejuice” and “Batman,” will be joined by Billie Eilish, making her fourth appearance as SNL’s musical guest. Eilish, 22, shared her excitement on Instagram, writing, “Coming baaaaack 😉 see u October 19th SNL💋💋.”
The lineup continues with John Mulaney returning as host on November 2. Mulaney, a former SNL cast member, will be joined by Chappell Roan, who will make her SNL debut as a musical guest. Mulaney, 42, expressed his surprise and excitement on X, stating, “This is the first I’m hearing of this.”
In addition to the exciting guest lineup, SNL has announced a new cast for its 50th season. Marcello Hernandez, Michael Longfellow, and Devon Walker have been promoted to the main cast, following two years as featured players. Meanwhile, Punkie Johnson, Chloe Troast, and Molly Kearney will not return for the new season. Johnson, 39, confirmed her departure in August, emphasizing that there was “no bad blood” or “bridges burned” as she steps away from the show.
As SNL celebrates its golden anniversary, the upcoming season promises to deliver a mix of humor, music, and memorable moments with a roster of celebrated guests and new faces.