Finn Wolfhard to Host SNL in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Saturday Night Live returns from winter hiatus on January 17 with Finn Wolfhard as the host and A$AP Rocky as the musical guest
• Season 51 will be missing longtime cast member Bowen Yang, who exited the show in December
• The new season will feature five new cast members: Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Kam Patterson, Veronika Slowikowska, and Ben Marshall
• The show will go on another break after the first round of upcoming episodes to accommodate the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics
• Saturday Night Live airs Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. ET/8:30 p.m. PT on NBC and Peacock

Introduction to the New Season
Saturday Night Live is set to return from its winter hiatus on January 17, with a star-studded lineup that includes Stranger Things star Finn Wolfhard as the host and A$AP Rocky as the musical guest. This marks the beginning of the second half of season 51, which promises to be an exciting and unpredictable ride. With Wolfhard’s hosting gig, fans can expect a fun and entertaining episode, especially given his experience playing an NBC page in Jason Reitman’s SNL biopic Saturday Night.

The Host and Musical Guest
Finn Wolfhard, known for his role as Mike Wheeler in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, will bring his unique energy to the show. As a seasoned actor, he has already demonstrated his ability to navigate different roles and genres, from the sci-fi horror of Stranger Things to the comedy of Saturday Night. A$AP Rocky, on the other hand, will bring his signature style and sound to the musical guest spot, promising an electrifying performance. The combination of Wolfhard’s hosting and A$AP Rocky’s music is sure to make for an unforgettable episode.

Changes in the Cast
However, the new season will also be marked by the absence of longtime cast member Bowen Yang, who exited the show in December after seven seasons. Yang’s departure follows the exit of five other cast members ahead of the season 51 premiere, including Heidi Gardner, Ego Nwodim, Devon Walker, Michael Longfellow, and Emil Wakim. To fill the gap, the show has added five new featured players: Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Kam Patterson, Veronika Slowikowska, and Ben Marshall. This influx of new talent promises to bring fresh perspectives and energy to the show, and fans are eager to see how they will mesh with the existing cast.

Previous Episodes and Upcoming Schedule
The current season has already featured a range of exciting episodes, with hosts like Bad Bunny, Amy Poehler, and Melissa McCarthy, and musical guests like Doja Cat, Role Model, and Brandi Carlile. After the January 17 episode, the show will continue to air new episodes, but will take a break in February to accommodate the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, which will be broadcast on NBC from February 6 to 22. Fans can catch Saturday Night Live on Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. ET/8:30 p.m. PT on NBC and Peacock, and can stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates through entertainment news outlets.

The Show’s Legacy and Impact
Saturday Night Live has been a staple of American television for decades, with a legacy that spans generations. The show has launched the careers of countless comedians, actors, and musicians, and continues to be a platform for new talent to shine. With its unique blend of comedy, music, and commentary, SNL remains a cultural touchstone, reflecting and shaping the national conversation. As the show returns from its winter hiatus, fans can expect more of the same irreverent humor, clever writing, and memorable performances that have made SNL a beloved institution.

Conclusion and Future Episodes
In conclusion, the return of Saturday Night Live on January 17 promises to be an exciting event, with Finn Wolfhard and A$AP Rocky bringing their unique talents to the show. As the season continues, fans can look forward to more new episodes, featuring a mix of established and new cast members. With its rich history, talented cast, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of comedy and satire, Saturday Night Live remains an essential part of the television landscape. As the show navigates the challenges of the modern media landscape, it continues to evolve and adapt, staying relevant and fresh for new generations of fans.