Saturday Night Live returns with new host Pete Davidson for season 49 after writer's strike

Live from New York, "Saturday Night Live" is back! After a shortened season due to the writers' strike, NBC has officially announced the premiere of Season 49, set for October 14. The show will be hosted by former cast member Pete Davidson, who was originally scheduled to host last May. Joining him as the musical guest is newcomer Ice Spice.

In the following week, fans can look forward to Bad Bunny taking on a dual role as host and musical guest. Although the Grammy-winning artist has previously performed on the show, this will be his hosting debut.

The good news is that the entire cast from Season 48 will be making a return, with one exciting addition: Chloe Troast, who joins as a featured player.


Pete Davidson was initially slated to host on May 6, alongside musical guest Lil Uzi Vert. Unfortunately, his episode became the first casualty of the writers' strike, which began just days before his scheduled appearance.

The writers' strike came to an end on September 26, following the approval of a contract agreement between the Writers Guild of America (WGA) board members and the studios. While the strike still affects most television and theatrical work in Hollywood, "SNL" can now resume its performances since variety shows operate under a separate contract.

It's not just "SNL" that's making a comeback; other late-night shows like "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver," and "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" have also returned to the airwaves.

"I'm excited to do some more 'SNL'," shared cast member James Austin Johnson, known for his spot-on impressions of Donald Trump and Joe Biden. "It moves quick," he added.

Fans can look forward to the return of their favorite late-night sketch comedy show, as "Saturday Night Live" gears up for a promising Season 49, following the obstacles of the writers' strike.