Walton Goggins is set to host this weekend’s episode of Saturday Night Live, bringing his unique flair and humor to the iconic sketch show. The episode, which airs on May 10, 2025, at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC, marks Goggins' debut as host, alongside musical guest Arcade Fire.
In a recent promotional video posted to the SNL X page on May 7, Goggins engages in a playful discussion with SNL cast member Marcello Hernandez about the suspenseful nature of his recent role in HBO’s The White Lotus. The show is known for its thrilling plot twists, including a cast member death that is revealed in the season finale. Goggins humorously speculates on who might meet a similar fate on SNL, jokingly theorizing about a “murder-suicide” involving cast members Colin Jost and Michael Che. Hernandez quickly counters, reminding Goggins that “these are real people, they’re not characters… no one is dying.”
Undeterred, Goggins continues his comedic musings, suggesting that Hernandez might be killed by fellow cast members, including Heidi Gardner and Chloe Fineman, before ultimately landing on Bowen Yang, quipping, “It would always ever be Bowen, because he hates you.” In a twist that mirrors the horror elements of The White Lotus, cast member Michael Longfellow then appears, pretending to stab Hernandez, and declares, “I should have been Domingo,” referencing Hernandez’s viral character.
Goggins, who recently wrapped up his role in the latest season of The White Lotus, which concluded in April 2025, is excited about his hosting gig. The show, created by Mike White, is a social satire that follows various groups of people vacationing at luxurious resorts, often ending with a shocking death that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
As the 50th season of Saturday Night Live continues, Goggins’ episode will be the 20th of the season. The anticipation is palpable, especially with the lineup featuring the acclaimed indie rock band Arcade Fire, who will be making their seventh appearance on the show. Known for their hits like “The Suburbs” and “Wake Up,” the band’s latest album, Pink Elephant, was released just a day prior on May 9, 2025.
For those unable to watch the show live on NBC, there are several streaming options available. Viewers can catch the episode on platforms like FuboTV and DirecTV Stream, both of which offer free trials for new users. Additionally, the episode will be available for streaming on Peacock the following day, May 11, 2025. Subscribers to Peacock can also enjoy exclusive content, including the new docuseries SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night, which features behind-the-scenes insights into the show’s most iconic moments.
Goggins is an Emmy-nominated actor best known for his memorable roles in The Righteous Gemstones, Invincible, and Fallout. His versatility and comedic timing are expected to shine in this weekend’s episode, where he’ll undoubtedly bring his unique brand of humor to the SNL stage.
The excitement surrounding Goggins’ debut as host is matched by the return of Arcade Fire, whose performance is highly anticipated. The group, consisting of Win Butler, Régine Chassagne, and other talented musicians, is known for their dynamic live shows and engaging stage presence.
As fans prepare for the episode, the buzz on social media is growing, with many eager to see how Goggins will blend his experiences from The White Lotus with the unpredictable nature of SNL. The promotional video has already generated a lot of laughs, showcasing Goggins’ ability to engage with the SNL cast and bring a fresh perspective to the show.
With the combination of Goggins’ comedic chops and Arcade Fire’s musical talent, this episode promises to be a memorable installment in the history of Saturday Night Live. Viewers can expect a night filled with laughter, surprises, and perhaps a few unexpected twists, mirroring the very essence of the shows that Goggins has recently been a part of.
As Saturday Night Live continues to celebrate its 50th season, the inclusion of diverse talents like Walton Goggins and Arcade Fire highlights the show’s commitment to showcasing a variety of voices and styles. Fans are encouraged to tune in this Saturday night to witness the magic unfold live.
