Get ready for a laughter-filled ride, as Season 51 of *Saturday Night Live* is just around the bend! The iconic sketch comedy series unveiled its lineup of hosts and musical guests for the first batch of episodes on Thursday, September 18, offering fans a tantalizing glimpse into what’s in store when the show makes its grand return this fall.
Kicking off the season premiere on October 4 will be none other than Puerto Rican rap sensation Bad Bunny, who will also take the reins as host. Joining him as the musical guest is the equally talented rapper Doja Cat. This marks Bad Bunny’s second stint as an *SNL* host, while Doja Cat will be making her much-anticipated debut as a musical guest.
On October 11, *SNL* alum Amy Poehler will return to the stage to host, with musical guest Role Model along for the ride. While Role Model is set to make his *SNL* debut as a musical guest, Poehler is no stranger to the role, having hosted twice before on her own and once alongside fellow *SNL* alum Tina Fey.
The October 18 episode promises a double treat for viewers, as Sabrina Carpenter, the “Manchild” singer, will pull double duty as both host and musical guest. Carpenter has previously graced the *SNL* stage as a musical guest, but this will mark her first time stepping into the host’s shoes.
*SNL* underwent a significant cast shakeup following its landmark 50th season. Cast members Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, Michael Longfellow, Heidi Gardner, and Ego Nwodim all announced their departures in recent weeks. Wakim had been part of the show for just one season, while Walker and Longfellow had each been on for three. The exits of Gardner and Nwodim, who had been with the show for eight and seven seasons respectively, came as the biggest surprises.
But *SNL* is also bringing in some fresh talent for Season 51, with Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall, Kam Patterson, and Veronika Slowikowska joining as featured players alongside returnees Ashley Padilla and Jane Wickline. They will join a returning cast that includes Michael Che, Mikey Day, Andrew Dismukes, Chloe Fineman, Marcello Hernández, James Austin Johnson, Colin Jost, Sarah Sherman, Kenan Thompson, and Bowen Yang.
This year, *SNL* racked up 15 Emmys for its milestone 50th season and the 50th anniversary special, a testament to its enduring appeal and comedic prowess.
*Saturday Night Live* Season 51 premieres on Saturday, October 4, at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. Don’t miss a minute of the hilarity!
