It’s finally here! In just a few hours, Saturday Night Live is kicking off its landmark 50th season, and it definitely feels like it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting premieres in recent memory. Airing live from 30 Rock at 11:30 p.m. ET, this is going to be a night to remember.
Host & Musical Guest
Making her SNL hosting debut is the one and only Jean Smart, fresh off her Emmy win for Hacks! Known for her sharp comedic chops, Smart is ready to bring a ton of laughs to the season opener. She’s an icon who can switch from drama to comedy in a heartbeat, and we can’t wait to see what she has in store for us tonight.
Joining her as the musical guest is country-rap sensation Jelly Roll, who’s also making his SNL debut. With his soulful blend of country and hip-hop, Jelly Roll is set to deliver a performance full of raw emotion, just days before dropping his new album Beautifully Broken on October 1. It’s a huge moment for him, and we can’t wait to vibe with his therapeutic beats.
What to Expect
SNL’s always been on point with its parodies, and given the current political climate, tonight’s episode will likely jump right into the middle of it all with satirical takes on the 2024 presidential election, maybe a skit on AI, or some hilarious social media mockery. We’re also hearing buzz about possible celebrity cameos to celebrate this huge milestone—will Maya Rudolph return as Kamala Harris? Stay tuned!
New & Returning Faces
The cast is packed with familiar talent and fresh faces! Fan favorites like Kenan Thompson, Chloe Fineman, Colin Jost, and Bowen Yang are back, and this season also introduces three new featured players: Ashley Padilla, Emil Wakim, and Jane Wickline. These newcomers bring unique energy and backgrounds, including Wickline’s viral comedy on TikTok.
So, no matter if you’ve been a fan for decades or you’re tuning in for the first time, this 50th season premiere is a can’t-miss event. So grab your snacks, get cozy, and join millions of fans across the country as SNL kicks off a historic season. Will there be surprise appearances? Unforgettable sketches? You’ll have to watch to find out!
See you at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC or streaming on Peacock—we’ll certainly be laughing right along with you!
