As Saturday Night Live (SNL) gears up for the final stretch of its historic 50th season, anticipation is building among fans of the long-running sketch comedy series. After returning from a brief hiatus on May 3 with host Quinta Brunson and musical guest Benson Boone, the show is set to air its penultimate episode on May 10, 2025, featuring actor Walton Goggins as host.
Walton Goggins, best known for his recent role as Rick Hatchett in HBO’s acclaimed series The White Lotus, is stepping into the SNL spotlight for the first time. He will be joined by the musical group Arcade Fire, marking their sixth appearance on the show since their debut in 2007.
Brunson’s return to SNL was met with enthusiasm, as she delivered a lively musical monologue that included appearances by fellow actress Sabrina Carpenter and former NBA star Dwyane Wade. The episode also showcased Brunson’s comedic chops as she took on the role of boxer Jerry “Jackrabbit” Tulane, proving once again that she is quickly becoming a fan favorite on the show.
With only two episodes left in the season, the stakes are high. The season finale on May 17 will feature none other than Scarlett Johansson as host, alongside musical guest Bad Bunny. This star-studded lineup has fans eagerly awaiting what the final episodes will bring.
As for tonight's episode, Goggins is expected to bring his unique flair to the SNL stage. Known for his standout performances in various TV shows, including Justified and The Righteous Gemstones, Goggins has built a reputation for his versatility and comedic timing. However, there has been some chatter about whether he is the best choice to host this pivotal episode.
Some fans and critics believe that Parker Posey, who also starred in The White Lotus, would have been a more fitting choice for the SNL hosting duties. Posey’s portrayal of the eccentric Southern housewife Victoria Ratliff in the third season of The White Lotus has garnered significant attention, with her character becoming a cultural icon. Her razor-sharp comedic timing and improv skills could have brought a fresh and unpredictable energy to the show.
Reflecting on the missed opportunity, one commentator noted that Posey’s performance was reminiscent of Jennifer Coolidge’s breakout role, which had fans buzzing about her potential hosting gig during the previous season. "It’s just a shame that NBC didn’t feel the same and passed up on the opportunity to bring in the true breakout of The White Lotus season 3 to host the penultimate episode of Saturday Night Live," they remarked.
Despite the debate over the hosting choice, Goggins is poised to deliver an entertaining episode. In a recent promo for the show, he and Arcade Fire appeared alongside SNL cast member Ego Nwodim, who playfully inquired about Goggins’ preparation for the role. Goggins responded humorously, saying, "I don’t know, I just try to have fun," before launching into an exaggerated monologue that showcased his theatrical flair.
As SNL continues to evolve, its ability to attract high-profile hosts and musical guests remains a testament to its enduring popularity. The upcoming episodes promise to deliver a mix of humor, music, and memorable moments that fans have come to expect from the iconic series.
For those looking to catch the latest episodes, SNL airs live on NBC and is also available for streaming on platforms like Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, fuboTV, and Peacock. The Walton Goggins-hosted episode will be available for on-demand viewing starting May 11, providing fans with the flexibility to enjoy the show at their convenience.
As the curtain falls on this season, the excitement surrounding SNL remains palpable. With two episodes left, including a highly anticipated finale featuring Johansson, fans are left to wonder what surprises are in store. Will Goggins rise to the occasion and deliver a memorable performance? Or will the show’s legacy continue to shine through its remarkable ability to adapt and entertain?
The clock is ticking as Saturday Night Live approaches the end of its 50th season, and the stakes have never been higher. With a mix of established stars and emerging talent, the show is set to leave a lasting impression as it wraps up this milestone season.
