Season 51 of Saturday Night Live is slated to premiere on October 4, 2025, at 11:30 PM ET/10:30 PM CT on NBC. New episodes will be available to stream the next day on Peacock. All previous seasons, from 2 to 50, are currently available on Peacock.

As the premiere date approaches, anticipation builds regarding the cast, hosts, and musical guests for the upcoming season. While the official cast list is yet to be revealed, some long-time cast members are expected to return. These include Kenan Thompson, the longest-serving cast member, along with Colin Jost, Michael Che, Mikey Day, Chloe Fineman, Andrew Dismukes, Heidi Gardner, Ego Nwodim, Bowen Yang, and Sarah Sherman. James Austin Johnson, Marcello Hernandez, Michael Longfellow, and Devon Walker were promoted to repertory players in Season 50 and may also return. Ashley Padilla, Emil Wakim, and Jane Wickline joined as featured players in the previous season.

However, potential cast changes are anticipated. There has been speculation about the departure of some long-running cast members like Bowen Yang, Heidi Gardner, Mikey Day, Colin Jost and Michael Che. Rising schedules for stars like Chloe Fineman and the skit group Please Don't Destroy could also mean possible exits or shifts. SNL is reportedly scouting for new talent, with a specific focus on performers of color, particularly women, from improv hubs across the country. Lorne Michaels is said to be looking for more character-driven performers.

The host and musical guest for the premiere episode have not been announced yet. Last season kicked off with Jean Smart as host and Jelly Roll as the musical guest. There is speculation that Lindsay Lohan could host the premiere, coinciding with the release of her new movie, Freakier Friday.

As SNL enters its 51st season, cast member Kenan Thompson described the moment as "bittersweet," hinting at potential changes. Michael Che noted the difficulty in predicting what will make the upcoming season special.

Saturday Night Live has a long history of shaping comedy on television and launching the careers of numerous comedians. The show recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with star-studded specials and received 31 Emmy nominations.