Is There A New SNL Tonight? The Shocking Lineup For The Final Episode Of 2025

The answer to the most pressing question for comedy fans this week is a resounding "Yes!" As of today, December 15, 2025, the long-running sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL) is scheduled to air a brand-new episode this coming Saturday, December 20, 2025. This highly anticipated show will serve as the final installment of the calendar year, wrapping up the fall run of Season 51 with one of the most star-studded lineups in recent memory.

This final episode before the annual winter break is set to deliver a massive punch, featuring a pop superstar as host and a legendary music icon taking the stage for a rare performance. The show, which airs live from Studio 8H in 30 Rockefeller Plaza, is preparing to send 2025 out with a bang before the cast and crew take a well-deserved holiday hiatus.

The Complete Lineup: Host and Musical Guest for December 20, 2025

The final episode of 2025, airing on Saturday, December 20, will feature a dynamic duo that is sure to generate viral sketches and unforgettable musical moments. This episode marks the end of the first half of the monumental Season 51, a season overseen by creator and executive producer Lorne Michaels.

• The Untouchable Privacy 7 Secrets Of Rachel Mcadams And Jamie Lindens Life Beyond The Red Carpet E820e

• Host: Ariana Grande. The globally recognized pop sensation and actress will be returning to the SNL stage to host for her third time. Grande, who is currently promoting her highly anticipated film projects, has proven her comedic chops and versatility in previous appearances, often participating in musical sketches and impersonations. Her return to 30 Rock is expected to be a major ratings event.
• Musical Guest: Cher. In a move that has surprised and delighted fans across generations, the legendary Oscar, Emmy, and Grammy Award winner Cher is scheduled to take the stage as the musical guest. This appearance is particularly significant as it marks Cher’s first time as a solo musical guest on Saturday Night Live since 1987, bringing an iconic presence back to the show.

The combination of a current pop powerhouse like Ariana Grande and a timeless icon like Cher promises a unique blend of modern comedy and classic entertainment, making the December 20th show a must-watch event.

The SNL Winter Hiatus: When Will the Show Return in 2026?

Following the December 20th broadcast, Saturday Night Live will take its traditional winter break, pausing production for the Christmas and New Year holidays. This is a standard practice for the show, allowing the cast, writers, and production team a much-needed rest before the rigorous schedule of the second half of the season.

The Show Will Be on Hiatus After December 20th.

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

While an exact return date for the first new episode of 2026 is typically announced during the final show of the year, fans can reliably expect the show to return in early to mid-January 2026. Historically, the show resumes its live broadcasts on the second or third Saturday of the new year. During the hiatus, NBC typically airs reruns of popular or recent episodes, allowing fans to catch up on some of the best sketches from the fall run of Season 51.

The Season 51 run is scheduled to conclude in May 2026, with the finale usually airing around the third Saturday of the month.

A Look Back at the Star-Studded Season 51 Fall Lineup

Season 51 has delivered a strong run of episodes, showcasing a diverse range of hosts and musical guests, cementing the show's status as a cultural touchstone. Understanding the context of the season helps appreciate the magnitude of the final 2025 episode.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

Key Hosts and Musical Guests of the Fall 2025 Season:

The season kicked off strong in October 2025 and has maintained momentum with a mix of veteran comedians, rising stars, and major film actors. The sketch comedy show has consistently delivered fresh content with its established cast members like Colin Jost, Michael Che (on Weekend Update), Kenan Thompson, and Bowen Yang.

• October 4, 2025: Host Bad Bunny with Musical Guest Doja Cat. This marked a major crossover event, with Bad Bunny returning to the hosting role and Doja Cat making her first appearance.
• October 11, 2025: Host Amy Poehler with Musical Guest Role. Poehler, a beloved SNL alum, returned to host for her third time, providing a nostalgic treat for long-time viewers.
• November 8, 2025: Host Nikki Glaser. The comedian made her hosting debut, bringing her signature stand-up style to the sketch format.
• November 15, 2025: Host Glen Powell with Musical Guest Olivia Dean. Powell, a breakout star in Hollywood, made his debut as host.
• December 6, 2025: Host Melissa McCarthy. The Emmy-winning actress and comedian returned for a highly anticipated episode.
• December 13, 2025: Host Josh O'Connor with Musical Guest Lily Allen. O'Connor, known for his dramatic roles, made his hosting debut, showcasing his comedic timing alongside musical artist Lily Allen.

This impressive roster demonstrates the show’s ongoing ability to attract top-tier talent from film, television, and music, ensuring that the live from New York tradition remains relevant and exciting. The show continues to be a staple on NBC and is also available to stream on Peacock, reaching a wider audience than ever before.

Topical Authority: The SNL Format and Legacy

Saturday Night Live, now in its 51st season, is more than just a late-night show; it is a cultural institution that dictates the comedic conversation across the United States and globally. Created by Lorne Michaels, the show has launched the careers of countless comedic legends and continues to be a powerful platform for political and social satire.

The show's format is famously consistent: it airs live at 11:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday nights, featuring a new host who delivers an opening monologue, participates in sketches, and introduces the musical guest. The centerpiece of the show remains the "Weekend Update," anchored by Colin Jost and Michael Che, providing a satirical take on the week's news. The show's home, Studio 8H, is a legendary space within the GE Building (now 30 Rockefeller Plaza) in New York City.

The show’s success is built on its ability to react instantly to current events. The pressure of creating a brand-new, 90-minute live broadcast each week is immense, which is why the seasonal breaks, like the upcoming winter hiatus, are crucial for maintaining the quality and freshness of the content. Fans eagerly await the return in January 2026 to see which major stars will kick off the second half of Season 51.