Ryan Gosling hosts SNL once more, marking his fourth appearance as the show’s host and his first since April 13, 2024. This return is scheduled for March 7 at Studio 8H, shortly before the release of the film adaptation of Andy Weir’s sci-fi novel, Project Hail Mary.
Gorillaz to Make Their First Appearance as Musical Guests
On the same night as Gosling’s return, the virtual band Gorillaz will make their Saturday Night Live debut. Their appearance follows the February 27 release of their latest album, The Mountain.
Highlights from Gosling’s Previous Hosting Episodes
Gosling initially hosted SNL in December 2015, with subsequent appearances in September 2017 and April 2024. His most recent episode featured one of the series’ most talked-about sketches: a live-action Beavis and Butt-Head, performed by Gosling, Mikey Day, and others using extensive wigs, makeup, and prosthetics. This episode also included a Ken-themed monologue with Fall Guy co-star Emily Blunt, the return of Kate McKinnon, and a Weekend Update appearance by basketball star Caitlin Clark.
Critical Acclaim and Award Wins from Gosling’s Latest Episode
That April 2024 episode earned a remarkable 18 Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Scripted Variety Series and a nod for Gosling as Outstanding Guest Actor. It converted six nominations into wins for Hairstyling, Make-Up, and director Liz Patrick, all linked to Gosling’s episode, alongside awards for Production Design, Lighting Design, and Technical Direction from other episodes in the season.
Strong Viewership Numbers Reflect Gosling’s Popularity
The April 2024 broadcast attracted 7.5 million linear viewers, the largest audience for SNL since December 2022 when Steve Martin and Martin Short co-hosted. When including digital views, the total cross-platform audience reached 8.9 million, the highest in over two years, according to Nielsen data.
SNL’s Upcoming Episodes and Current Season Status
Saturday Night Live is currently on a break due to the Winter Olympics and will resume on February 28. That episode features host Connor Storrie, known for Heated Rivalry, with Mumford & Sons as the musical guest.
Significance of Gosling’s Return and Anticipated Impact
With Gosling’s proven ability to attract audiences and generate acclaimed content, his upcoming hosting is expected to draw substantial viewership. The combination of his star power and Gorillaz’s musical debut creates a highly anticipated episode that continues SNL’s tradition of blending high-profile hosts with fresh musical talent, signaling an optimistic outlook for the show’s ongoing season.
“That episode went on to rack up 18 total Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Scripted Variety Series and an Outstanding Guest Actor nod for Gosling himself.” ?
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“It ultimately converted six of those nominations into wins—for Hairstyling, Make-Up, and director Liz Patrick (all in Gosling’s episode), plus Production Design (for that season’s James Brolin-hosted episode), Lighting Design (for its Kristen Wiig-hosted episode), and Technical Direction (for its Timothée Chalamet-hosted episode).” ?
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