The Record-Breaking Reign: Who Are The Current SNL Weekend Update Hosts And Who Is Next?

The "Weekend Update" desk on Saturday Night Live is arguably the most coveted seat in late-night comedy, a segment that has launched the careers of legends from Chevy Chase to Tina Fey. As of late 2025, the segment continues its tradition of sharp political and pop culture satire, anchored by a duo whose tenure has surpassed all others in the show's 51-season history.

The current co-anchors, Colin Jost and Michael Che, have defined the segment for over a decade, but with every passing season—and especially with the show now in its 51st season—speculation mounts about when this record-breaking run might finally come to an end, and who will be the next comedians to sit behind the famous desk. The latest news suggests that the transition may be closer than ever, with screen-tests reportedly already underway for a new generation of anchors.

The Longest-Serving Anchors: Colin Jost and Michael Che Biography & Profile

Colin Jost and Michael Che have served as the co-anchors of "Weekend Update" since 2014, making them the longest-serving duo in the segment's history.

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Colin Jost: Profile Overview

• Birth Name: Colin Kelly Jost
• Born: June 29, 1982 (Age 43 as of late 2025)
• Birth Place: Staten Island, New York City, New York, United States
• Education: Harvard University (graduated 2004)
• SNL Tenure: Joined as a staff writer in 2005. Became co-anchor of "Weekend Update" in 2014.
• Notable Roles: "Weekend Update" Co-Anchor, former SNL Head Writer, author of the memoir A Very Punchable Face.
• Style: Wry, self-deprecating, and often focused on political satire and pop culture.

Michael Che: Profile Overview

• Birth Name: Michael Che Campbell
• Born: May 19, 1983 (Age 42 as of late 2025)
• Birth Place: Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States
• Education: Attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts.
• SNL Tenure: Joined as a writer in 2013, briefly served as a correspondent for The Daily Show, and returned to SNL to become co-anchor of "Weekend Update" in 2014.
• Notable Roles: "Weekend Update" Co-Anchor, former SNL Head Writer, stand-up comedian, and actor.
• Style: Acerbic, deadpan, and known for his sharp commentary on social issues, race, and current events.

The Record-Breaking Run: Why Jost and Che Are SNL Icons

The partnership between Colin Jost and Michael Che has become the defining feature of modern SNL, largely due to their unique chemistry and their ability to push the boundaries of the news-parody format. Their co-anchorship officially began in September 2014, and their continuation into the 2025-2026 season (Season 51) solidifies their status as the longest-running duo.

The "Joke Swap" Tradition

One of the most popular and boundary-pushing segments of their tenure is the "Joke Swap," typically performed during the season finale. In this segment, the two hosts write jokes for each other on sensitive topics, which are then read live on air without prior knowledge of the content. This tradition highlights their competitive but close working relationship, often resulting in genuine shock and hilarity, and has become a staple of their run.

The Dynamic of Contrasts

Their success lies in their contrasting styles, which play off the inherent tension of the news desk. Jost, the clean-cut, Harvard-educated writer, often delivers jokes with a polished, slightly smug delivery, while Che, the stand-up comedian, offers a more grounded, often cynical, and socially conscious perspective. This dynamic allows the segment to hit a wide range of satirical targets, from elite politics to grassroots social issues.

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Who Will Be the Next Weekend Update Hosts? The Screen-Test Speculation

With Colin Jost having been a part of SNL for 20 years and Michael Che for 12, the question of their eventual departure is always top of mind for fans and the show's producers. The latest buzz suggests that Lorne Michaels and the SNL team are actively preparing for a post-Jost and Che era, with reports of screen-tests for potential new anchors.

The Leading Candidates and Potential Duo Dynamics

The transition of "Weekend Update" hosts is a critical moment for SNL, as the segment requires a specific blend of writing skill, stage presence, and chemistry. Historically, the show often elevates current cast members or writers to the role, following the path of legends like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Seth Meyers.

Current speculation, particularly since the Season 50 finale, has focused on a few key names who have been performing well in their segments and demonstrate the necessary skills:

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• Michael Longfellow: A popular cast member known for his sharp, observational stand-up style. He is seen by many fans and commentators as a strong contender, potentially "red-shirted" to take over the desk.
• Bowen Yang: Already a highly visible and Emmy-nominated cast member, Yang has a powerful stage presence and a strong comedic voice. His partnership with another cast member, such as Matt Rogers, has been floated as a "fresh new take."
• Marcello Hernández: Another newer cast member who has been gaining prominence. He has already appeared in "Weekend Update" segments, showcasing his ability to deliver comedy in the news desk format.

The show's history reveals a pattern of successful duos and solo anchors, providing a roadmap for the future. The next hosts will need to establish their own unique tone while respecting the segment's legacy of acerbic, timely political humor.

A Legacy of Comedy Legends: The History of Weekend Update Anchors

"Weekend Update" has been a consistent feature since SNL first aired in 1975, and its anchor chair has served as a launchpad for some of the biggest names in comedy. The segment has undergone numerous transformations, from a pure news parody to a vehicle for political commentary and character bits.

Notable Past Hosts and Duos

The list of former anchors is a comedy hall of fame, demonstrating the segment's legacy and topical authority:

• Chevy Chase (1975–1976): The original anchor who coined the iconic opening line: "I'm Chevy Chase, and you're not."
• Jane Curtin (1976–1980): One of the first female anchors, often paired with Dan Aykroyd (1977–1978) and later Bill Murray (1978–1980).
• Dennis Miller (1985–1991): Known for his verbose, high-brow, and rapid-fire delivery, setting a new standard for the segment.
• Norm Macdonald (1994–1997): Famous for his deadpan delivery and controversial, often dark jokes, making him a cult favorite.
• Tina Fey and Jimmy Fallon (2000–2004): A classic duo that brought a youthful energy to the desk.
• Tina Fey and Amy Poehler (2004–2006): The first all-female anchor team, celebrated for their sharp wit and incredible chemistry.
• Amy Poehler and Seth Meyers (2006–2013): A beloved pairing that continued the segment's strong political focus.
• Seth Meyers (2006–2014): Held the desk as a solo anchor and later with Cecily Strong (2013–2014) and Colin Jost, before moving on to host his own late-night show.

The current hosts, Colin Jost and Michael Che, have inherited a rich tradition of satire, and their continued presence in Season 51 ensures that the "Weekend Update" desk remains the epicenter of political humor on Saturday nights.