After much anticipation, the 52nd season of the iconic sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL) is set to premiere on 26th September 2026. The beloved programme has become a staple of late-night television since its debut in 1975, and this upcoming season promises to feature a mix of both returning and new talent.
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One of the highlights of the season premiere will be NBA star Jalen Brunson, who will take the reins as the host. Brunson, recently celebrated for helping the New York Knicks secure their first NBA Finals victory in over five decades, is sure to bring an electric energy to the Studio 8H stage. Accompanying him as the musical guest will be the band KATSEYE, marking their first appearance on the show.
The following week, Dakota Johnson will take over as host for her third time, bringing her cinematic charm back to the iconic studio. She will be joined by musical act Turnstile. The anticipation does not end there, as comedian Shane Gillis is scheduled to host on 10th October, with Spanish singer Rosalía set to perform. Moreover, on Halloween night, Inde Navarrette, known for her role in the film Obsession, will debut as host, supported by singer Gracie Abrams.
While there are some familiar faces expected to return, fans of the show will notice the absence of Chloe Fineman and Martin Herlihy, both of whom concluded their time on SNL prior to the season’s start. As of 10th September, there has been no official confirmation regarding the complete cast for season 52, leaving viewers curious about who will grace the stage alongside the likes of Kenan Thompson, Colin Jost, and Michael Che.
Before the season kicks off, the SNL cast and crew will make an appearance at the 2026 Primetime Emmys on 14th September, where the show has garnered an impressive 11 nominations this year. This is indicative of the high standards and creative efforts that the team puts forth, and fans will be eager to see how this recognition translates into the new season.
For those keen to catch the latest episodes, SNL will air on NBC at 11:30 p.m. ET every Saturday. Following each broadcast, episodes will be available for viewers to stream on Peacock, ensuring that fans have multiple platforms to enjoy the hilarity and satire that SNL is renowned for.
As the new season unfolds, the show’s intent to blend current events and pop culture with comedy remains unchanged. In an era of rapid societal shifts, audiences will undoubtedly be curious to see how the cast tackles the latest news and trends while simultaneously delivering the wit and humour that SNL has built its legacy upon.
With so much on the horizon for SNL’s 52nd season, fans can look forward to a mix of laughter, music, and unexpected moments that have made Saturday Night Live a cultural phenomenon over the years. The excitement for the premiere continues to build, promising an entertaining return to live comedy as we enter the autumn months.