Ryan Gosling is scheduled to host Saturday Night Live on March 7, with the British virtual band Gorillaz featuring as the musical guest. This episode, set to air from NBC’s Studio 8H in New York City, highlights Gosling’s continued involvement with the iconic sketch-comedy series.
Gosling’s History on Saturday Night Live
This will be Gosling’s fourth time hosting SNL, following appearances in December 2015, September 2017, and April 2024. NBC confirmed the March 7 episode on a Thursday announcement. Throughout these visits, Gosling has earned praise for his relaxed, self-deprecating humor and his lighthearted interactions with the cast, often breaking character with laughter.
In his first hosting role on December 5, 2015, during Season 41, Gosling promoted the drama The Big Short. That episode featured a memorable monologue where fellow Canadian actor Mike Myers joined him in humorous exchanges about Canadian identity and politics. Gosling also participated in sketches such as Close Encounter and Santa’s Helpers, playing an enthusiastic Santa fan alongside Vanessa Bayer and Kenan Thompson.
His second time hosting, on September 30, 2017, was the premiere of Season 43, where he promoted Blade Runner 2049. He referenced the success of La La Land in a comedic monologue poking fun at critics who joked that he had “saved jazz.” Notable from this episode was the Papyrus sketch featuring Gosling as a man obsessed with typography who is infuriated by the improper use of the font. His ability to maintain character while enjoying the moment again stood out.
Most recently in April 2024, Gosling hosted to promote the action-comedy The Fall Guy. This episode included a viral sketch styled after Beavis and Butt-Head, where Gosling and Mikey Day portrayed two audience members whose unexpected appearances distract from a live event. Afterward, Gosling reprised these characters at the film’s premiere. Fans and critics alike have noted that his tendency to laugh during sketches adds a charming quality to his performances.
Gorillaz’s Debut Appearance on Saturday Night Live
The musical guest for this March 7 episode, Gorillaz, is an animated band created by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett. This appearance marks their first performance on SNL. The group is preparing to release their ninth studio album, The Mountain, on February 27, and they are expected to perform selections from this new record during the show.
Details on Broadcast and Future Episodes
The March 7 episode will begin at 11:30 p.m. Eastern Time on NBC. Following this, another original SNL episode will air on March 14, though the host and musical guest for that week have not yet been revealed.
Continuing Impact and Expectations
Ryan Gosling’s recurring presence as a host confirms his popularity and fit for the show’s style, blending humor with charm. His upcoming episode promises to offer a mix of comedy sketches and music from a band known for its innovative digital performances. Fans looking forward to Gosling’s promotion of Project Hail Mary, which debuts in theaters on March 20, will likely tune in for both entertainment and insight into his latest work.
