Jalen Brunson to Host 'Saturday Night Live' Season 52 Premiere
The New York Knicks captain will make his hosting debut on September 26 alongside musical guest Katseye.
“Saturday Night Live” is set to kick off its 52nd season on September 26 with New York Knicks captain Jalen Brunson as host. The Emmy Award-winning sketch comedy series will feature global girl group Katseye as the musical guest for its premiere episode.
Brunson, who recently led the Knicks to a championship, will make his first appearance on the iconic late-night show. A promotional video for the episode shows Brunson humorously attempting to use his key to the city of New York to unlock the doors of Studio 8H.
The season premiere airs at 11:30 p.m. ET/8:30 p.m. PT on NBC. Viewers can stream the episode live for free through a five-day trial of DIRECTV's Choice package, which includes NBC. Alternatively, a seven-day free trial of Peacock Premium is available, with new episodes streaming on Sunday mornings.
This season also sees changes in the “SNL” cast. Saidah Belo-Osagie and Grace Reiter have joined as new featured players. Ashley Padilla and Jane Wickline have been promoted to the repertory cast, while Chloe Fineman departs after seven seasons. Writer Martin Herhlily also left the show after five seasons.
Future episodes of Season 52 are scheduled to feature hosts Dakota Johnson with musical guest Turnstile on October 3, Shane Gillis with Rosalía on October 10, and Inde Navarrette with Gracie Abrams on October 31. Dates and hosts for subsequent episodes in late 2026 are yet to be announced.