The Ultimate SNL Lineup Guide: Who’s Hosting And Performing On January 17, 2026, And The Shocking Details From The Season 51 Finale
The question "Who's on SNL tonight?" remains one of the most-searched phrases in entertainment, and as of December 23, 2025, the iconic sketch comedy show is officially on its winter hiatus. Fans are still buzzing from the explosive, star-studded final episode of 2025, but the good news is that the lineup for the highly anticipated return of Saturday Night Live is already locked in. The first episode of 2026 promises a fresh-faced, yet seasoned, host making his debut alongside a hip-hop heavyweight.
The latest confirmed schedule from Studio 8H reveals that SNL will make its grand return on Saturday, January 17, 2026, with a host known globally for his work in one of Netflix's biggest hits, and a musical guest dropping a highly anticipated new album just a day before the show. Get ready for a deep dive into the stars, the sketches, and the shocking moments from the Season 51 finale that set the stage for the new year.
The Next Confirmed SNL Episode: January 17, 2026
After the traditional holiday break, Saturday Night Live Season 51 is set to resume its run with a pairing that perfectly bridges the worlds of cinematic sci-fi and cutting-edge music. This episode is crucial as it officially kicks off the 2026 calendar for the legendary show, helmed by creator Lorne Michaels.
Host: Finn Wolfhard
The 23-year-old Canadian actor, director, and musician Finn Wolfhard is set to host the first episode of 2026, marking his debut on the SNL stage. Wolfhard has been a fixture in pop culture for years, primarily known for his role as Mike Wheeler in the global phenomenon series Stranger Things, which recently concluded its run.
- Full Name: Finn Wolfhard
- Date of Birth: December 23, 2002
- Place of Birth: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Occupation: Actor, Musician, Director, Screenwriter
- Notable Roles: Mike Wheeler in Stranger Things, Richie Tozier in the It film series, Trevor in Ghostbusters: Afterlife.
- Music Projects: Previously the lead vocalist and guitarist for the rock band Calpurnia; currently performing under his own name and as part of the duo The Aubreys.
- Current Projects: Wolfhard is transitioning into major film roles, including the upcoming stunt comedy film Crash Land alongside Gabriel LaBelle. He is also working on adapting the Replacements biography Trouble Boys into a feature film and recently released his solo debut album, Happy Birthday, in July 2025.
- SNL Significance: Wolfhard's debut hosting gig is expected to draw a massive audience, especially from the dedicated Gen Z and Millennial fanbases of Stranger Things and his music projects. His comedic timing, honed over years of interviews and public appearances, suggests he's a natural fit for the sketch format.
Musical Guest: A$AP Rocky
Sharing the stage with Wolfhard is the multi-talented rapper, record producer, and fashion icon A$AP Rocky. This appearance is perfectly timed to promote his highly anticipated new album, Don't Be Dumb, which is scheduled to drop just one day before the SNL broadcast on January 16, 2026.
- Full Name: Rakim Athelaston Mayers
- Stage Name: A$AP Rocky
- Date of Birth: October 3, 1988
- Place of Birth: Harlem, New York City, New York, U.S.
- Occupation: Rapper, Songwriter, Record Producer, Actor, Model
- Musical Style: Known for his experimental and atmospheric hip-hop style, often incorporating elements of Southern rap and psychedelia.
- Current Album: His fourth studio album, Don't Be Dumb, will be the focus of his performance, marking his return to the live stage after a period of intense anticipation from fans.
- SNL History: This will be one of A$AP Rocky's multiple appearances on the show, always delivering high-energy, visually stunning performances that often become viral moments.
Recapping the Star-Studded Season 51 Finale (December 20, 2025)
The final episode of 2025, which aired on December 20, was a holiday spectacular that saw two entertainment titans take over Studio 8H: Host Ariana Grande and Musical Guest Cher. The episode served as a powerful capstone to the first half of Season 51.
Ariana Grande's Fifth Time Charm
Pop superstar Ariana Grande returned to SNL for what was her fifth time on the show's schedule, though this time she was the sole host. Grande, who is known for her impressive vocal impressions, especially her spot-on Celine Dion, delivered a strong performance throughout the night. Key sketches included a hilarious digital short that parodied the holiday movie genre and a surprisingly dark turn in a wholesome-looking Christmas sketch, which fans online speculated was penned by veteran writers Mikey Day and Colin Jost.
Cher's Iconic Musical Moment
The legendary Cher took the stage as the musical guest, a true icon closing out the year. Her performance was a highlight, with the superstar demonstrating her enduring vocal power and stage presence. The episode was also notable for a heartfelt moment involving long-time cast member Bowen Yang, who was rumored to be saying a temporary or permanent goodbye to the show, with Grande and even former cast member Aidy Bryant joining him in a poignant segment.
The State of Saturday Night Live Season 51 Cast
Season 51 has seen a significant refresh in the cast, introducing new blood while retaining beloved veterans. The current ensemble continues to be a major draw, providing the essential comedic engine for the weekly sketches.
The Veteran Ensemble
The backbone of the show remains the returning stars, providing stability and character continuity. Kenan Thompson, the longest-tenured cast member in SNL history, continues to anchor the show with his versatility and impeccable timing. Weekend Update co-anchors Michael Che and Colin Jost are also back, delivering their signature brand of political and social commentary.
The New Faces and Rising Stars
Season 51 welcomed five new featured players, injecting fresh perspectives and energy into the show. These new additions include Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall, Kam Patterson, and Veronika Slowikowska. The integration of these new cast members, some of whom gained initial fame on platforms like TikTok, has helped the show maintain its relevance with younger audiences and keep the comedy current.
Topical Authority: Why the Next Episode Matters
The choice of Finn Wolfhard and A$AP Rocky for the January 17, 2026, episode is a deliberate move by SNL to capture the cultural zeitgeist. Wolfhard represents the new generation of Hollywood talent, seamlessly moving between acting, directing, and music. His appearance is a promotional powerhouse for his new film projects and solo music career. A$AP Rocky's performance, coinciding with the release of his album Don't Be Dumb, is a massive promotional event in the music industry, guaranteeing a high-profile, must-watch broadcast. This strategic booking ensures that SNL remains at the center of the entertainment conversation as it enters the new year.
In summary, while there is no new episode of SNL tonight, December 23, 2025, the anticipation for the return on January 17, 2026, is sky-high. Prepare for a night of sci-fi nostalgia, cutting-edge hip-hop, and classic sketch comedy as Finn Wolfhard and A$AP Rocky take the stage.
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