Show summary Hide summary
- Tonight’s headline acts: Ariana Grande as host and Cher as musical guest
- Air time and how the show will be broadcast
- Ways to stream the episode without a cable subscription
- Bowen Yang’s send-off and what it means for SNL
- When SNL returns and what to expect next
- Quick checklist to make sure you don’t miss it
- Brief profiles: Ariana Grande and Cher
- Useful viewing notes and streaming tips
Live from Studio 8H: Ariana Grande returns to host Saturday Night Live tonight, Dec. 20, in a holiday-themed episode that pairs her with music legend Cher and marks repertory player Bowen Yang’s final show after seven seasons. Fans can expect sketches, music, and an announcement about the second half of SNL’s Season 51.
Tonight’s headline acts: Ariana Grande as host and Cher as musical guest
Ariana Grande headlines the broadcast as host, bringing momentum from her leading role in Wicked: For Good. This is her third time hosting and follows earlier appearances as a musical guest.
United Polaris Studio suites: tickets now on sale for April inaugural flights
Auston Matthews-Radko Gudas controversy: Pierre LeBrun predicts fallout
Cher joins as the episode’s musical guest. The pop icon has a long SNL history and recently performed during the show’s 50th anniversary concert in February 2025.
Air time and how the show will be broadcast
The episode airs live coast to coast at 11:30 p.m. ET / 8:30 p.m. PT on NBC. Viewers across time zones will see the show in its usual late-night slot.
Ways to stream the episode without a cable subscription
If you don’t subscribe to cable, there are legitimate streaming routes to watch the show live or shortly after broadcast.
- DIRECTV STREAM: Often offers short free trial periods and includes NBC in many packages.
- Peacock: Offers a trial window and posts new SNL episodes for on-demand viewing the following morning.
- Other live TV services that carry NBC can also stream the episode live.
Remember to check trial lengths and cancellation policies to avoid charges after the trial ends.
Bowen Yang’s send-off and what it means for SNL
Tonight is Bowen Yang’s last episode after a seven-year run at the show. He joined SNL as a writer before moving up to featured player and later to repertory status.
Yang’s departure coincides with his growing film work, including recent appearances alongside Grande in the Wicked films.
When SNL returns and what to expect next
This episode closes out SNL’s broadcasts for 2025. The show pauses until mid-January, when Season 51 resumes with new hosts and musical guests.
It’s common for SNL to announce upcoming guests during late-year episodes, so keep an eye on tonight’s show for teasers.
Quick checklist to make sure you don’t miss it
- Set a reminder for 11:30 p.m. ET.
- Confirm your NBC access via cable or a live TV streaming service.
- Activate any free trials in advance to stream without interruption.
- Follow official SNL and the artists on social media for behind-the-scenes updates.
Brief profiles: Ariana Grande and Cher
Ariana Grande
Grande is currently starring in Wicked: For Good and has a recurring relationship with SNL, including previous hosting gigs and musical performances. Her blend of pop stardom and stage work makes her a natural late-night host.
Cher
Cher first appeared on SNL decades ago and remains a cultural fixture. Her recent appearance at the SNL50 anniversary concert reinforced her long-standing ties to the show.
Useful viewing notes and streaming tips
- Peacock often makes episodes available for on-demand streaming after the live broadcast.
- Check for regional broadcast differences if you live outside the U.S.
- If you plan to use a trial service, sign up at least a day before the episode to test playback on your device.
