Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 13, 2024 12:02 am GMT
As the iconic late-night variety show prepares for a milestone, fans of Saturday Night Live (SNL) are counting down the days to its highly anticipated 50th season premiere. Mark your calendars for September 28, where Emmy-winning actress Jean Smart will take center stage as the host, accompanied by musical guest Jelly Roll. This special season is expected to blend new talent with the humor and sketches that SNL is famous for, creating an unforgettable experience for audiences both live and at home.
A Historic Season Dawns
This season is not just another installment of the beloved sketch series but a celebration of its extraordinary 50-year legacy. As SNL kicks off on September 28 at 11:30 PM ET on NBC, the show promises to engage long-time fans and newcomers alike with its unique format and humor.
In anticipation of its golden anniversary, SNL is also planning a three-hour primetime special on February 16, 2025, commemorating its incredible journey since its debut in 1975. The live event will highlight memorable moments, iconic sketches, and guest appearances that have defined the show’s history.
Premiere Details
Here’s a look at what to expect for the SNL season 50 premiere:
- Host: Jean Smart
- Musical Guest: Jelly Roll
- Air Date: September 28, 2024, at 11:30 PM ET
- Where to Watch: NBC and Peacock (streaming the next day)
Smart, who recently celebrated an Emmy win, expressed her excitement about hosting during a post on Instagram, describing it as a “bucket list” opportunity. Jelly Roll will also make his debut performance on the show, adding to the excitement surrounding the opening night.
Lineup of Hosts and Musical Guests
SNL’s star-studded lineup for the first five episodes of the season includes:
- September 28: Jean Smart with Musical Guest Jelly Roll
- October 5: Nate Bargatze with Musical Guest Coldplay
- October 12: Ariana Grande with Musical Guest Stevie Nicks
- October 19: Michael Keaton with Musical Guest Billie Eilish
- November 2: John Mulaney with Musical Guest Chappell Roan
Each host brings a unique flair to the show. Comedian Nate Bargatze will return after a successful appearance last fall, while pop star Ariana Grande is set to host for the second time. Michael Keaton, known for his roles in film and television, will host just before Halloween, marking another milestone for the show.
New Talents Join the Cast
This season also welcomes three new Featured Players: Ashley Padilla, Emil Wakim, and Jane Wickline, each bringing fresh perspectives and comedic styles to the iconic Studio 8H stage.
- Ashley Padilla has been part of L.A.’s Groundlings, where many SNL stars have launched their careers.
- Emil Wakim, an up-and-coming stand-up comic, gained recognition as a New Face at the 2022 Just for Laughs festival.
- Jane Wickline, known for her engaging TikTok performances, adds a modern touch with her background in sketch comedy.
Their addition follows the departure of some cast members from the previous season, allowing SNL to cultivate a mix of classic and contemporary humor.
Celebrating the Legacy
The 50th season isn’t just about new faces and big names; it’s also a moment to reflect on SNL’s place in television history. The show has garnered numerous accolades and maintains a strong following, remaining a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. Its unique ability to adapt to current events and cultural shifts has kept audiences engaged for decades.
Back in May 2024, SNL concluded its 49th season with hosts like Dua Lipa and Jake Gyllenhaal, highlighting its ongoing relevance. The show was the #1 entertainment series across both broadcast and cable among key demographics, proving that its humor resonates widely.
Future Announcements
As the season unfolds, SNL is expected to make more announcements about additional special guests and features. Enthusiastic fans have already started speculating about potential cameos and the return of beloved characters, including requests for past hosts to reprise iconic roles.
Marking half a century of laughter, SNL continues to push boundaries and break new ground in comedy. Viewers can look forward to an innovative season filled with laughter and nostalgia.
Conclusion
The 50th season of *Saturday Night Live* is going to be really fun! This season will have new funny faces and some of the favorite comedians we all love. Jean Smart will be hosting for the first time, and there will be lots of great music from popular artists. Get ready for a night full of laughs, music, and awesome memories on September 28 as *Saturday Night Live* starts its next big adventure!
