As fans eagerly search for new snl tonight, there’s important confirmed news to share: Saturday Night Live is not airing a new episode on January 10, 2026. Instead, the iconic late-night sketch comedy show is currently on a short winter break and will return with fresh episodes starting Saturday, January 17, 2026. This marks the continuation of SNL’s 51st season, featuring a lineup of compelling hosts, exciting musical acts, and a mix of comedy that continues to define American pop culture.
Here’s an in-depth look at what’s planned, who’s hosting, and what viewers can expect as SNL kicks into the new year with both big names and rising stars.
Why There Is No New Episode Tonight
Tonight’s broadcast is not a new SNL episode. Instead, a previously aired show is on the schedule while the live sketch series takes its customary holiday break. This pause happens annually and allows the creative teams to regroup after a busy fall run of episodes. Even though there isn’t a new snl tonight, audiences nationwide can look forward to the show’s return next weekend with a fresh installment of sketches, monologues, and musical performances.
Confirmed 2026 Return Date for New Episodes
The official return date for new SNL episodes is Saturday, January 17, 2026, with a live broadcast starting at 11:30 p.m. Eastern Time. This episode, airing on NBC and streaming on Peacock, will kick off the year’s run of new content as the show resumes its 51st season after the winter break.
The January 17 show marks both a fresh start and a continuation of a season filled with high-profile guests and memorable comedy moments.
January 17: Finn Wolfhard Hosts with A$AP Rocky Performing
The first new episode of 2026 features Finn Wolfhard as host. Wolfhard, known widely for his role as Mike Wheeler in Stranger Things and recent work in film and directing, makes his hosting debut on SNL. This appearance reflects SNL’s continued interest in spotlighting performers who have both mainstream appeal and a growing creative presence.
Accompanying Wolfhard as the musical guest is A$AP Rocky, who is set to perform music from his latest album that drops just one day before the episode airs. Rocky’s return to SNL as a musical guest adds extra buzz to the season premiere and gives viewers a chance to hear his newest work live on the show.
January 24: Teyana Taylor Brings Energy with Rock Band Geese
The week after the season’s return, Teyana Taylor takes on hosting responsibilities on January 24. Taylor, a multifaceted artist with experience in music, acting, and choreography, has previously been involved in SNL sketches and is now stepping into full hosting duties.
For this episode, the musical spotlight shifts to Geese, an up-and-coming rock band that has attracted growing attention thanks to their recent album and festival appearances. Their performance underscores SNL’s eclectic musical choices, blending genres and introducing audiences to dynamic new sounds.
January 31: Alexander Skarsgård Debuts as Host with Cardi B Performing
To round out January, Alexander Skarsgård will host the January 31 episode of SNL. This marks his first time as host, and the casting highlights SNL’s ability to draw respected actors from film and television into its live comedy space.
The musical guest for this show is Cardi B, who returns to SNL after a previous appearance. Her performance promises to blend her signature energy with the show’s format, creating a memorable late-night musical moment. This episode also holds added significance as it aligns with one of the show’s upcoming milestone moments.
Broad Appetites: How Season 51 Has Already Shaped Up
Season 51 began in October 2025 with a slate of celebrated performers. The season opener featured Bad Bunny as host with Doja Cat as musical guest, followed by appearances from entertainment heavyweights and rising talents alike. Throughout the fall, viewers saw big moments like a return by Cher and multiple hosting debuts by actors and comedians, making the first half of the season one of the most diverse in recent memory.
This mix of hosts and musical guests reflects SNL’s longstanding tradition of blending comedy with performance art, ensuring both skits and songs become part of the culture conversations each weekend.
Ongoing Cast and Format Notes
Returning as anchors on Weekend Update are Colin Jost and Michael Che, whose commentary continues to frame national and global events with sharp satire. Behind the scenes, the cast has seen changes, with some veteran performers departing during the season and new players joining, each contributing fresh energy to the ensemble.
SNL’s combination of seasoned hosts, special guests, and cast rotations keeps the sketch format lively and relevant to contemporary audiences.
How to Watch: NBC and Streaming Options
In the United States, new episodes of SNL air live on Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. Eastern Time on NBC. For streaming, Peacock provides both live access during the broadcast and on-demand viewing afterward. These options make it easier than ever for audiences to catch new episodes whether they watch live or later in the week.
Peacock also offers a catalog of past SNL episodes, allowing fans to explore previous seasons and classic sketches on demand.
What the 2026 Lineup Says About SNL’s Direction
The early 2026 schedule reveals several consistent themes in SNL’s programming strategy:
- Cross-Industry Stars: From actors like Finn Wolfhard and Alexander Skarsgård to musicians like A$AP Rocky and Cardi B, SNL continues to leverage mainstream names that attract broad audiences.
- Musical Diversity: The inclusion of artists ranging from hip hop to rock bands signals the show’s commitment to diverse musical representation.
- Fresh Talent: Hosting debuts and new cast dynamics bring unpredictability and opportunity for stand-out comedy moments.
These elements reflect SNL’s ability to evolve while still delivering the sketch comedy and social commentary that have defined it for decades.
Looking Ahead
As Season 51 progresses past its winter return, the schedule may continue to expand with additional hosts and musical guests through the spring. SNL often adjusts its lineup to reflect cultural trends, holiday events, and major entertainment moments, ensuring that each episode resonates with its audience. With the January run setting a high bar, expectations for the weeks ahead are already building.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or just tuning in for the first time this season, the blend of comedy, music, and cultural reflection makes SNL one of the most talked-about shows on American television.
Share your reactions to the upcoming hosts and musical guests, and tell us which episode you’re most excited to watch when SNL returns to the stage.