SNL's 51st season ends with a bang! Olivia Rodrigo hosts & performs, Matt Damon returns, and Will Ferrell closes the epic May 2026 finale.
- April 19, 2026
AceShowbiz - Saturday Night Live is gearing up for an exciting conclusion to its 51st season, featuring a star-studded lineup of hosts and musical guests. Among the highlights are Olivia Rodrigo, longtime favorite Will Ferrell, and actor Matt Damon, all set to headline the final episodes in May 2026.
On May 2, Olivia Rodrigo will make her debut as an SNL host while also performing as the musical guest. This special episode celebrates her latest album you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love. Though this is her first time hosting, Rodrigo is no stranger to the SNL stage, having appeared twice previously as a musical guest.
Following her, on May 9, actor Matt Damon will return as host for the third time. The episode will feature second-time musical guest Noah Kahan. Damon’s presence adds to the season's impressive roster of talent, blending comedy and music seamlessly for a memorable broadcast.
The season finale on May 16 will mark a much-anticipated return for Will Ferrell, who will host for the sixth time. Joining him as the musical guest is legendary musician Paul McCartney, who will perform on SNL for the fifth time. Ferrell, currently starring in Netflix's The Hawk, will bring his signature comedic energy to Studio 8H for this grand finale.
Season 51 has featured a diverse and high-profile group of hosts and musical acts since its premiere. Early episodes included superstar Bad Bunny, who hosted for the second time on October 4 while also making his fourth musical guest appearance. The episode also introduced Doja Cat as a musical guest for the first time, expanding the season’s musical variety.
On October 11, the show commemorated its 50th anniversary with the return of Amy Poehler hosting for her third time. She was joined by musical debut Role Model. The cold open reunited Poehler with fellow alum Tina Fey in a political parody, and the Weekend Update segment featured a comedic showdown between former and current anchors.
Pop star Sabrina Carpenter hosted and performed on October 18, marking her hosting debut. Carpenter had previously appeared as a musical guest and participated in the SNL50 anniversary special. Her episode included sketches with recurring characters and a music video that humorously explored adolescent dance culture.
November 1 featured actor Miles Teller hosting for the second time this season, backed by four-time musical guest Brandi Carlile. The episode opened with a political parody involving New York City’s mayoral race and included sketches blending political satire with pop culture.
Stand-up comedian Nikki Glaser hosted on November 8, accompanied by musical newcomer sombr. Her episode featured a playful parody of Beauty and the Beast and a Weekend Update appearance by Pete Davidson, who humorously defended his purchase of an old Staten Island Ferry boat.
Glen Powell hosted on November 15 to promote his role in the upcoming remake of The Running Man. Olivia Dean made her SNL debut as musical guest. Highlights included the return of former cast member Will Forte reprising his MacGruber character and comedy sketches involving notable impressions.
December 6 saw the return of frequent host Melissa McCarthy with first-time musical guest Dijon. The episode opened with a satirical press conference featuring Colin Jost and James Austin Johnson impersonating political figures.
British actor Josh O’Connor hosted on December 13 with musical guest Lily Allen. His episode delivered a comedic take on male strippers, blending humor with social commentary, and showcased his versatility as a performer.
Pop icon Ariana Grande hosted the annual pre-Christmas episode on December 20, alongside musical guest Cher. The show included a heartfelt farewell to cast member Bowen Yang and a humorous holiday-themed monologue by Grande.
January 17 featured Finn Wolfhard hosting with musical guest A$AP Rocky. Wolfhard was joined by his Stranger Things co-stars during his monologue, and the episode included a crossover sketch referencing Harry Potter.
Oscar nominee Teyana Taylor hosted on January 24, supported by musical guest Geese. The episode offered memorable comedic moments, including a character struggling to dance at a wedding, and featured impersonations of public figures.
Alexander Skarsgård made his hosting debut on January 31 with Cardi B as musical guest. The episode included the return of Pete Davidson in a political sketch and further displayed the season’s blend of sharp humor and music.
Most recently, Connor Storrie hosted on February 28, marking his SNL debut, with Mumford & Sons performing as musical guests. Storrie’s episode continued the season’s trend of mixing fresh talent with established musicians.
With Olivia Rodrigo, Matt Damon, and Will Ferrell leading the charge, the final episodes of SNL Season 51 promise to deliver a dynamic mix of comedy, music, and memorable performances. Fans can look forward to these upcoming shows, which will cap off a season rich with diverse talent and high-profile appearances.
This season’s impressive lineup underscores SNL’s ongoing commitment to blending established stars with emerging artists, maintaining its status as a premier platform for comedy and music. As the show wraps its 51st year, viewers can expect the final episodes to combine the best elements that have defined SNL for decades.