SNL: 5 Shocking Updates On The New Cast, SNL50 Guests, And The Final 2025 Hosts

Saturday Night Live (SNL), the iconic American late-night sketch comedy show, is wrapping up the final episodes of 2025 with a massive burst of news, major cast shakeups, and an all-star lineup that has the internet buzzing. As of this current date, December 12, 2025, the show is deep into its 51st season, continuing its half-century-long tradition of blending political satire, celebrity impressions, and viral sketches from the legendary Studio 8H in New York City. The anticipation is not just about the weekly episodes; it's also centered on the unprecedented celebrity talent being announced for the upcoming 50th-anniversary celebration.

The latest season has been defined by a significant changing of the guard, with a wave of new talent joining the ranks alongside veterans like Kenan Thompson and the Weekend Update team. This infusion of fresh blood, combined with the star power of the final hosts and the sheer magnitude of the "SNL50" event, proves that the comedy powerhouse remains a dominant force in the ever-evolving media landscape, even as it faces ongoing critical scrutiny.

The Complete SNL Season 51 Roster and Cast Shakeup

Season 51 has been marked by one of the most significant cast overhauls in recent memory, a move that Lorne Michaels often orchestrates to keep the show's comedic edge sharp. While several key players remain, five new featured players have been added to the ensemble, bringing new energy and comedic voices to the show’s dynamic.

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The Five New Featured Players for Season 51

To combat the perennial criticism that the show has become stale, SNL has introduced a quintet of fresh faces. These new cast members are tasked with carrying the torch and developing the next generation of memorable characters and impressions.

• Tommy Brennan: Known for his unique stand-up and character work on the independent comedy circuit.
• Jeremy Culhane: A writer and performer whose digital shorts have previously garnered attention online.
• Ben Marshall: Part of a popular comedy trio, bringing a strong background in sketch writing and performance.
• Kam Patterson: A rising star in stand-up comedy, adding a distinct perspective to the cast.
• Veronika Slowikowska: Hailing from the improv scene, she is expected to bring a strong character-driven style.

These new additions join the established main cast, which includes long-time veterans and fan favorites. The current ensemble features: Colin Jost, Michael Che, Kenan Thompson, Mikey Day, Bowen Yang, Chloe Fineman, Andrew Dismukes, and Sarah Sherman.

The Final Star-Studded Hosts and Musical Guests of 2025

The final stretch of 2025 is closing with a bang, featuring A-list celebrities and globally recognized musical talent. The December shows are traditionally high-profile, often featuring holiday-themed sketches and surprise cameos.

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December 6, 2025: Melissa McCarthy and Dijon

The first December show saw the return of comedy titan Melissa McCarthy as host, known for her explosive physical comedy and previous Emmy-winning guest spots, particularly her iconic portrayal of former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer. The musical guest for the evening was the acclaimed R&B artist Dijon, whose unique sound provided a fresh contrast to the night's comedic energy.

The Highly Anticipated Finale: Ariana Grande and Cher

The most shocking announcement for the end-of-year run is the pairing of two global divas for a major, final episode. Ariana Grande and the legendary Cher are slated to front a major, diva-sized episode later in December. This dual-star billing is an unusual move for SNL, suggesting a night packed with high-production musical numbers, celebrity cameos, and possibly a collaborative sketch between the two pop culture icons. The episode is already generating massive buzz, with fans speculating on potential duet performances and holiday-themed sketches.

SNL50: The Anniversary Special Lineup and Details

The biggest event on the horizon is the 50th-anniversary celebration, officially titled "SNL50: The Anniversary Special." This three-hour live television event is scheduled to air soon and will commemorate the show's five decades on air since its debut in 1975, a milestone that solidifies its status as a cultural institution.

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The special is expected to feature a massive reunion of cast members, hosts, and musical guests from the show’s history, from the original "Not Ready for Prime Time Players" to the newest featured cast. The sheer scale of the guest list is a testament to the show's impact on comedy and entertainment.

Confirmed SNL50 Celebrity Guests

While the full list remains under wraps, the initial batch of announced guests for the anniversary special is already a who’s-who of Hollywood and comedy elite, promising a night of unforgettable reunions and sketches:

• Adam Driver: A frequent and popular host known for his commitment to character.
• Ayo Edebiri: A new-generation star whose presence signifies the show's relevance to younger audiences.
• Dave Chappelle: The legendary comedian whose post-election hosting appearances have been critically acclaimed.
• John Mulaney: A former SNL writer who has become one of the show's most successful and celebrated hosts.
• Kim Kardashian: Her inclusion highlights the show's ability to pull in figures from all corners of pop culture, not just comedy.

The event will be a major cultural moment, not just a television special. It will undoubtedly be a source of retrospectives, behind-the-scenes stories, and new viral moments, ensuring Saturday Night Live dominates the conversation for weeks.

The Enduring Cultural Impact and Controversies

Even as it prepares for its golden anniversary, SNL remains a lightning rod for cultural debate. The show's political satire is often credited with influencing voter perceptions, particularly through its iconic impersonations of political figures.

However, the current era, Season 51, continues to face the perennial criticism that "SNL is so bad now." Critics and audiences debate whether the show's format can keep pace with the rapid-fire nature of modern viral comedy and social media. Arguments often center on the chemistry of the current ensemble, the perceived quality of the writing, and the challenge of satirizing a political climate that often seems beyond parody.

Despite these critiques, the show's ability to attract top-tier talent like Ariana Grande, Cher, and Melissa McCarthy, and to stage a massive event like SNL50, demonstrates its continued cultural relevance. SNL remains the primary launchpad for comedic talent in the U.S., a live-action barometer of the nation's zeitgeist, and a powerful force in shaping the careers of its alumni, from Eddie Murphy and Tina Fey to Kate McKinnon and The Lonely Island. The show’s future, as it steps closer to its 50th year, seems secure, driven by its history, its creator Lorne Michaels, and its uncanny ability to adapt to a changing world.