Ariana Grande is set to host ‘Saturday Night Live’ tonight, December 20, 2025, with pop icon Cher as the musical guest, in a festive episode that concludes the show’s 2025 season. Viewers can tune in live on NBC or stream for free through various trial offers, making this star-studded night accessible to all.
The episode airs at 11:30 p.m. Eastern Time on NBC, featuring Grande in her third hosting role and fifth overall appearance on the SNL stage. Having last hosted in October 2024 ahead of the ‘Wicked’ film release, Grande returns amid her rising profile from the Broadway adaptation where she played Glinda. Her previous SNL stints include two times as musical guest in 2014 and 2022, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Tonight’s hosting gig is part of her ongoing promotion for ‘Wicked: For Good’ and her upcoming ‘Eternal Sunshine’ tour scheduled for 2026.
Cher, often hailed as the ‘Goddess of Pop,’ makes her second appearance as an SNL musical guest after a remarkable 38-year hiatus since her last performance in 1987. She recently participated in ‘SNL50: The Anniversary Concert’ in February 2025, but this marks her return to the musical guest slot. With a career spanning over six decades, Cher is known for hits like ‘If I Could Turn Back Time’ and ‘Believe,’ and she released a Christmas album in 2023. Her involvement adds a nostalgic yet vibrant element to the holiday episode, appealing to multiple generations of fans.
For those without cable, watching SNL live is possible through free trials on streaming services. DIRECTV offers a five-day free trial that includes live access to NBC, allowing viewers to catch the episode at no cost. Alternatively, Peacock Premium provides a seven-day free trial, with new SNL episodes available for streaming the following morning. Both options are highlighted in news reports as convenient ways for cord-cutters to enjoy the show without long-term commitments.
This episode is particularly significant as it bids farewell to repertory player Bowen Yang, who is leaving after seven years with the show. Yang, who co-starred with Grande in the ‘Wicked’ films, started as a writer in Season 44 and rose to featured player and then repertory player. His departure marks the end of an era for SNL, adding an emotional layer to the Christmas special. Additionally, this is the final SNL broadcast of 2025, wrapping up the first half of Season 51 with a bang.
Looking ahead, SNL will return in mid-January for the second half of Season 51, with hosts and musical guests likely to be announced during tonight’s episode. The combination of Grande and Cher is expected to draw high ratings, capitalizing on their massive fan bases and the holiday timing. This episode not only celebrates the end of the year but also sets the stage for SNL’s continued evolution in 2026, maintaining its cultural relevance in late-night television.
