SNL Season 51 Premiere: Who Is the SNL Tonight Host, Musical Guests on Saturday Night Live’s Big

Saturday Night Live is preparing for one of its most anticipated returns in years. As fans gear up for SNL Season 51, questions about the SNL tonight host, the new lineup of cast members, and the list of musical guests are dominating conversations. With a wave of cast changes and high-profile celebrities set to take the stage, this new season of Saturday Night Live promises to mix nostalgia, fresh talent, and unforgettable live comedy.

When Does SNL Season 51 Begin?

The official premiere date of SNL Season 51 is Saturday, October 4, 2025, airing at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC and streaming live on Peacock. Until then, reruns continue to air, meaning there is no new SNL tonight episode scheduled before that date.

Who Is the SNL Tonight Host?

The big question every weekend is: who will be the SNL tonight host? For the premiere of Season 51, the honor goes to global superstar Bad Bunny, who will headline the first episode. The season then continues with an impressive lineup of hosts and performers.

Confirmed Hosts and Musical Guests for October Episodes

This trio of shows offers a blend of returning icons, comedy legends, and new generation stars, ensuring Saturday Night Live starts Season 51 with momentum.

Major Cast Changes Shaping Saturday Night Live

One of the most talked-about stories ahead of the season is the significant shakeup in the cast. Several beloved performers have officially exited, making way for a new generation of talent.

Departing Cast Members

• Ego Nwodim (after seven seasons)

• Heidi Gardner (after eight seasons)

• Devon Walker

• Michael Longfellow

• Emil Wakim

New Featured Players Joining SNL Season 51

• Tommy Brennan

• Jeremy Culhane

• Kam Patterson

• Veronika Slowikowska

• Ben Marshall

These transitions reflect SNL’s tradition of reinventing itself while maintaining the balance between established stars and rising comedians.

Returning Stars Still Leading the Cast

While some big names are leaving, audiences can look forward to familiar favorites who continue to anchor the show. Key returning cast members include:

• Kenan Thompson

• Bowen Yang

• Michael Che

• Colin Jost

• Chloe Fineman

• Mikey Day

• Sarah Sherman

• Andrew Dismukes

• Marcello Hernández

• James Austin Johnson

This mix ensures SNL will deliver both continuity and fresh comedic energy in Season 51.

What Makes the SNL Tonight Episodes Special?

Every episode of SNL tonight is built on three essential pillars: the host, the musical guest, and the live sketches. This year, the format remains the same but the lineup suggests an emphasis on both diversity and cross-generational appeal.

• Bad Bunny brings global music influence and bilingual flair.

• Amy Poehler offers a nostalgic return to the stage where she made history.

• Sabrina Carpenter joins a short list of artists who have pulled double duty as both host and musical guest.

Looking Ahead to Saturday Night Live’s New Era

The arrival of SNL Season 51 marks a turning point for Saturday Night Live. With celebrated veterans departing, new featured players stepping in, and a roster of high-profile celebrities taking the stage, the show is once again reinventing itself while staying true to its late-night comedy roots.

Audiences tuning in for the SNL tonight host and musical performances this October can expect bold sketches, timely satire, and the unpredictability that has defined the show for over five decades.