Get Ready for a Hilarious Return: Saturday Night Live in 2026
Saturday Night Live is set to make a spectacular comeback in 2026, and fans are more excited than ever. Following a vibrant and emotionally resonant winter finale hosted by the multi-talented Ariana Grande on December 20, the show is taking a well-deserved break, gearing up for what promises to be an engaging new season.
How to Watch SNL
Mark your calendars! You can catch SNL Saturdays at 11:30/10:30c on NBC. For those who miss the live airing, episodes will be available the next day on Peacock. Make sure to tune in; you won’t want to miss the laughs!
What Happened in the Winter Finale?
This season’s winter finale showcased Grande’s incredible talents, with the crew pulling out all the stops to deliver unforgettable sketches. It was an episode filled with laughter and heartfelt moments, especially with cast member Bowen Yang‘s emotional send-off. The combination of humor and genuine emotion created a memorable experience for all viewers watching from home.
For those who want a recap or missed out, you can catch up on Grande’s sketches and monologue from the Christmas episode through the NBC website.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2026?
The anticipation for SNL‘s return is building, with exciting news on the horizon including a lineup of fresh faces and familiar favorites. As the new year approaches, fans can look forward to the first episode airing on January 17, 2026.
Host for the First Episode
Finn Wolfhard, widely recognized for his role in Stranger Things, will be making his hosting debut on the show. This is particularly thrilling since it comes just after the final episodes of Stranger Things release on Christmas Day. Not only will this be his first time at the helm, but it also marks a moment where he can hilariously confront jokes made about him in previous episodes, particularly a memorable singing sketch by cast member Jane Wickline.
Wickline humorously warned viewers about the potential “self-awareness” of the cast from Stranger Things, adding an amusing twist to the anticipation surrounding his hosting gig. It’s sure to be a moment full of comedic chemistry!
Musical Guest for the Episode
Joining Wolfhard will be rapper A$AP Rocky, who will be marking his debut on the SNL stage with a performance just after the release of his latest album, Don’t Be Dumb. While he may be a first-time musical guest, Rocky’s previous appearance in a sketch adds an element of familiarity. His engaging performances and distinct style promise to elevate the evening.
Stream and Relive the Glory
While waiting for the new episodes to roll out, viewers can binge-watch sketches from prior seasons, available for streaming on Peacock. Revisit classic sketches and discover hidden gems as you prepare for the comedic journey that lies ahead.
Shop SNL Merch
For the die-hard fans looking to snag some memorable SNL merchandise, keep an eye out for exciting offerings that channel the show’s legacy. Whether it’s apparel or collectible items, there’s something to celebrate every fan’s love for comedy.
With the return of SNL on the horizon, the excitement is palpable. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a notable season filled with laughter, memorable moments, and a plethora of surprises!