The 5 Biggest Changes In SNL’s New Season 51: Cast Shakeups, Surprise Hosts, And The Future Of Weekend Update

Saturday Night Live (SNL) is currently deep into its 51st season, and as of today, December 11, 2025, the show is undergoing one of its most dynamic and buzzed-about transitions in recent memory. The new season, which premiered on October 4, 2025, has introduced a fresh wave of comedic talent, set up a blockbuster December slate of hosts, and reignited persistent rumors about the future of some of the show’s most veteran players. This isn't just a new season; it’s a major generational shift, blending established stars with viral newcomers and setting a new tone for the iconic sketch comedy series. The latest episodes have showcased a clear effort by creator Lorne Michaels to inject new life into the 30 Rockefeller Plaza institution. With five new featured players joining the cast and a string of high-profile, first-time hosts, Season 51 is proving to be a must-watch for fans eager to see how the show adapts its classic format to the contemporary comedy landscape. The coming weeks, leading up to the holiday break, are stacked with highly anticipated episodes that will define the season's early legacy.

SNL New Cast Members and Returning Veterans: Season 51 Roster

The biggest story of the new season is the significant shakeup of the repertory and featured players. While several fan favorites have returned, the addition of five new featured players marks a major investment in the next generation of *SNL* stars. This blend of seasoned veterans and fresh faces is crucial for maintaining the show's topical edge and energy.

The Five New Featured Players for SNL Season 51:

• Tommy Brennan: Known for his sharp observational humor and quick wit, Brennan has quickly found his footing in the ensemble.
• Jeremy Culhane: Culhane’s background in improvisational comedy has made him a versatile player in the show’s digital shorts and pre-taped sketches.
• Ben Marshall: A notable addition, Marshall is a member of the popular comedy group "Please Don't Destroy," whose filmed shorts have become a staple of the show's recent seasons. His official move to the cast signals a commitment to this modern sketch format.
• Kam Patterson: Patterson brings a unique, dry comedic style that offers a distinct voice to the new cast.
• Veronika Slowikowska: Slowikowska has already impressed critics with her strong character work and ability to anchor sketches.

Key Returning Cast Members:

The new players join a strong core of returning veterans, ensuring continuity and stability. Key players confirmed to be back include:

• Michael Che (Weekend Update Co-Anchor)
• Colin Jost (Weekend Update Co-Anchor)
• Mikey Day
• Andrew Dismukes
• Chloe Fineman
• Marcello Hernández
• James Austin Johnson
• Sarah Sherman

The veteran presence, particularly in segments like the Weekend Update, remains the backbone of the show, providing a familiar anchor amidst the change.

1. The Blockbuster December Host Lineup

The final three shows of 2025 are arguably the most anticipated stretch of the season, featuring a mix of beloved *SNL* veterans and major pop culture stars. This trio of hosts is a clear signal of the show's ambition for Season 51. The December shows kicked off with a bang on December 6, 2025, with the return of comedy powerhouse Melissa McCarthy. McCarthy, known for her high-energy performances and unforgettable Sean Spicer impression, hosted with musical guest Dijon. The excitement continues with the upcoming episodes:

• December 13, 2025: Host Josh O'Connor and Musical Guest Lily Allen. O'Connor, a critically acclaimed actor, makes his *SNL* debut, which promises a fresh and perhaps more theatrical approach to the sketches. Lily Allen returns for her second appearance as musical guest.
• December 20, 2025: Host Ariana Grande. The pop superstar is set to close out the year, and fans are speculating whether she will also serve as the musical guest, as she is a highly talented singer and has prior experience on the show.

2. The High-Profile Premiere and Early-Season Hosts

Season 51 didn't ease into the schedule; it launched with a star-studded lineup that immediately generated buzz. The season premiere on October 4, 2025, was hosted by Bad Bunny, who also served as the musical guest, alongside Doja Cat. Other early season highlights included the return of *SNL* legend Amy Poehler, who hosted the October 11 show with musical guest Role Model, and the unique double-duty performance by Sabrina Carpenter, who hosted and was the musical guest on October 18. This trend of hosts pulling double duty or featuring major musical talent like Glen Powell and Cher demonstrates a strategy to maximize viewership and viral potential.

3. Rumors Swirling Around the Future of Weekend Update

One of the most persistent and talked-about storylines of the new season is the speculation regarding the future of Weekend Update anchors Michael Che and Colin Jost. The duo is one of the longest-running pairings in the history of the segment, but rumors of their potential departure have been circulating for a while, reaching a fever pitch this season. The anchors have often joked about their long tenure and the difficulty of finding a natural exit point. While no official announcement has been made, the buzz suggests that Season 51 could be the final run for the iconic pair. The show has a history of major cast announcements during the season finale, meaning fans will be watching closely for any clues in the coming months. The potential vacancy would open the door for a new generation of anchors, possibly drawn from the current cast like Marcello Hernández or a new featured player.

4. A New Era of Digital Shorts and Viral Sketch Comedy

The new cast members, particularly Ben Marshall from the "Please Don't Destroy" group, signal a continued emphasis on the pre-taped digital short format. These shorts, which often go viral immediately after airing, have become the show’s most reliable source of online engagement. The new featured players bring a fresh, internet-native sensibility that is perfectly suited for this style of comedy, ensuring *SNL* remains relevant to younger audiences who consume content primarily through platforms like YouTube and TikTok. The early sketches of Season 51 have demonstrated a willingness to experiment with structure and pacing, moving away from traditional, stage-bound sketches to more cinematic and fast-paced pre-taped segments. This shift is vital for maintaining the show's position as a cultural barometer in the age of rapid-fire social media content.

5. Topical Authority and Political Commentary

In the lead-up to the next major election cycle, *SNL* continues to be a major player in political satire. The Cold Open sketches have remained a key focus, with James Austin Johnson’s impressions continuing to anchor the political commentary. The show's ability to quickly pivot and satirize the most current political and social events is what sets it apart, and Season 51 has doubled down on this topical authority. The new cast members are also being utilized to parody emerging cultural figures and trends, broadening the show’s satirical scope beyond just politics. This ensures that the show's humor feels fresh and contemporary, tackling everything from streaming service overload to viral social media trends. The new blood is providing the energy needed to keep the satire sharp and relevant in a constantly changing media landscape. The overall sentiment around the new season is one of cautious optimism. The blend of established talent and promising newcomers, coupled with a string of highly anticipated hosts, positions *SNL* Season 51 as a strong entry in the show's legendary run. Fans should keep their eyes peeled for the December 13 and December 20 episodes, which are poised to deliver some of the season's most memorable moments.