Saturday Night Live kicks off Season 50 with star-studded lineup
A milestone season begins
As “Saturday Night Live” gears up for its monumental 50th season, the show promises an exciting lineup of hosts and musical guests that will surely captivate audiences. This season’s roster includes a mix of seasoned performers and fresh faces, ensuring a dynamic start to the new season.
Jean Smart opens the season
The season premiere on September 28 will be hosted by the talented Jean Smart, known for her versatile roles in both comedy and drama. Joining her as the musical guest is the rising star Jelly Roll, whose unique blend of country and hip-hop has been making waves. This pairing sets a high bar for the rest of the season.
Nate Bargatze and Coldplay
On October 5, comedian Nate Bargatze will take the stage as the host. Bargatze’s laid-back, observational humor is sure to resonate with the audience. Accompanying him will be the legendary band Coldplay, known for their anthemic hits and captivating live performances. This episode promises a perfect blend of laughter and music.
Ariana Grande returns
Ariana Grande will host “SNL” for the second time on October 12. Grande, who has successfully transitioned from a pop sensation to a versatile entertainer, is expected to bring her A-game. The musical guest for this episode is the iconic Stevie Nicks, making her return to the “SNL” stage after her first performance in 1983. This episode is a must-watch for fans of both pop and rock music.
Michael Keaton and Billie Eilish
On October 19, the legendary Michael Keaton will host, bringing his unique charm and wit to Studio 8H. The musical guest for this episode is the multi-talented Billie Eilish, whose genre-defying music and captivating stage presence have made her a global phenomenon. This episode is sure to be a highlight of the season.
John Mulaney and Chappell Roan
Rounding out the initial lineup on October 26 is John Mulaney, a former “SNL” writer and frequent host known for his sharp wit and comedic timing. Joining him is Chappell Roan, making her “SNL” debut. Roan’s fresh sound and powerful vocals are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Where to watch
“Saturday Night Live” airs on NBC at 11:30 p.m. ET and streams on Peacock, making it accessible to a wide audience. Whether you’re tuning in for the comedy, the music, or both, this season promises to deliver unforgettable moments.
Personal reflections
As a long-time fan of “Saturday Night Live,” I find this lineup particularly exciting. The mix of veteran hosts and new musical talents reflects the show’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. Jean Smart’s opening episode is especially intriguing, given her recent acclaim in both “Hacks” and “Mare of Easttown.” Her comedic chops and dramatic depth make her a perfect choice to kick off this milestone season.
Nate Bargatze’s episode with Coldplay is another standout. Bargatze’s humor is refreshingly relatable, and pairing him with a band as universally beloved as Coldplay is a stroke of genius. This episode is likely to appeal to a broad audience, from comedy enthusiasts to music lovers.
Ariana Grande’s return to “SNL” is highly anticipated. Her previous hosting stint showcased her comedic talent and versatility, and with Stevie Nicks as the musical guest, this episode is set to be a memorable one. Nicks’ timeless music and Grande’s contemporary appeal create a fascinating juxtaposition that will undoubtedly captivate viewers.
Michael Keaton’s hosting gig is another highlight. Keaton’s career spans decades, and his ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama makes him an ideal “SNL” host. Billie Eilish’s performance is sure to be a showstopper, given her innovative approach to music and performance art.
John Mulaney’s episode with Chappell Roan is a fitting way to round out the initial lineup. Mulaney’s sharp humor and Roan’s fresh musical talent promise an episode that will leave audiences wanting more.
Explore more
For those eager to dive deeper into the upcoming episodes, here are direct links to the trailers and information pages for the featured hosts and musical guests:
- Jean Smart
- Jelly Roll
- Nate Bargatze
- Coldplay
- Ariana Grande
- Stevie Nicks
- Michael Keaton
- Billie Eilish
- John Mulaney
- Chappell Roan
This season of “Saturday Night Live” is shaping up to be one for the books, and I, for one, can’t wait to see what surprises are in store.