It’s that time of year again when the laughter returns to Studio 8H at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, and fans of sketch comedy can rejoice as Saturday Night Live (SNL) prepares to kick off its 49th season. In an exciting announcement, NBC revealed that the multi-talented Pete Davidson will be hosting the much-anticipated season premiere, accompanied by musical guest Ice Spice. Mark your calendars for the fall premiere on October 14th, as Davidson makes his hosting debut.
Pete Davidson, the 29-year-old comedian who became a household name during his eight-season stint on SNL, left the show in 2022 but has remained a beloved figure in the world of comedy. Originally slated to host an episode last May, Davidson’s return was unfortunately canceled due to the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike, which finally came to an end recently.
At that time, NBC officially stated, “The previously announced Saturday Night Live hosted by Pete Davidson and musical guest Lil Uzi Vert is canceled due to the writers’ strike. SNL will air repeats until further notice starting Saturday, May 6.” Fans were understandably disappointed, but the wait is finally over.
Following Pete Davidson’s hosting gig, SNL fans are in for another treat as Bad Bunny takes on a double role as both host and musical guest on October 21st. The official SNL Instagram account also confirmed these exciting developments with their signature corkboard-style announcement, featuring the names of all three stars.
In addition to the host announcement, SNL is welcoming Chloe Troast to the cast as a featured player. Returning cast members include fan favorites Michael Che, Colin Jost, Bowen Yang, Mikey Day, Andrew Dismukes, Chloe Fineman, Heidi Gardner, Punkie Johnson, Ego Nwodim, and the legendary Kenan Thompson, who is celebrating an impressive 20th anniversary on the program.
This season 49 announcement arrives against the backdrop of the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. However, SNL’s ability to return stems from the fact that it operates under the union’s Network Code, allowing SAG-AFTRA members to fulfill their contractual obligations without violating strike rules.
The union clarified its position, stating, “SAG-AFTRA members appearing on Saturday Night Live either as hosts, guests, or cast members are working under the Network Code agreement, which is not a contract we are striking. They are not in violation of SAG-AFTRA strike rules, and we support them in fulfilling their contractual obligations.”
It’s important to note that Saturday Night Live falls under a separate agreement that is not subject to the strike order, allowing the show to proceed despite the strike.
The statement emphasized that most of the regular cast members on SNL had contractual obligations that predated the strike. Many are under option agreements, obliging them to return if the producers exercise their option, which they have done.
Furthermore, the Network Code Collective Bargaining Agreement includes a “no strike clause,” meaning performers agree not to strike during its term. Breach of contract can result in consequences, and the union is prohibited from advising them not to work.
SAG-AFTRA underscored its support for members required to work under other union contracts or personal service agreements while also emphasizing its ongoing battle against the studios.
As SNL gears up for its 49th season, late-night television is making a triumphant return after the strike hiatus. Shows like The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Late Night with Seth Meyers, This Week Tonight with John Oliver, and The Daily Show have also announced their return to the airwaves.
The return of SNL promises to deliver laughter, memorable sketches, and plenty of surprises, all under the capable and hilarious hosting of Pete Davidson. So, prepare for a season of comedic brilliance as SNL returns to our screens with a bang!
