Finn Wolfhard's "SNL" Debut: A Nostalgic Reflection on Growing Up

Finn Wolfhard made his hosting debut on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) on January 18, 2026, marking a significant moment as he transitioned from child star to adult actor. The episode, which also featured musical guest A$AP Rocky, opened with Wolfhard reflecting on his time growing up on the Netflix series "Stranger Things." He humorously noted, “It feels so amazing that 400 million people got to watch me go through puberty,” while addressing the audience about his journey from a 12-year-old actor to a 23-year-old man.

Hollywood Reporter

Wolfhard's monologue was interrupted by his former "Stranger Things" co-stars, Caleb McLaughlin and Gaten Matarazzo, who joined him on stage. Together, they joked about their shared experiences as child actors, with Matarazzo quipping, “Any time you read ‘former child star’ in a headline, it can only mean good things.” This moment resonated with the audience, highlighting their camaraderie and the challenges of growing up in the public eye.

Variety Magazine

The episode featured several sketches that parodied the "Stranger Things" universe, including a faux advertisement for potential spinoffs. Among the imagined titles were “Strangerous Minds,” focusing on Steve Harrington as a teacher, and “Mike in Manhattan,” a series reminiscent of "Sex and the City." The sketches humorously addressed fan theories, including the unfounded belief in a secret ninth episode of "Stranger Things," which Wolfhard and his co-stars playfully debunked during the show.

USA Today

Wolfhard expressed a mix of nostalgia and sadness regarding the end of "Stranger Things," stating, “When I first read the ending, I felt sad... it was the perfect way to end.” His reflections were echoed by McLaughlin and Matarazzo, who acknowledged the public's scrutiny of their growth, with McLaughlin sarcastically thanking fans for their comments about their changing appearances.

USA Today

While the episode was largely well-received, some critics pointed out that the humor surrounding their transition from child stars to adults could be seen as trivializing the challenges they faced. The lighthearted approach to serious topics like growing up in the spotlight drew mixed reactions from audiences, with some feeling that it glossed over the complexities of their experiences.

Variety Magazine

• “But I’m 23 now, and I’m proud to officially announce that I am a man,” Finn said.” — Finn Wolfhard

Just Jared

• “We’re former child stars, and any time you read ‘Former child star’ in a headline, it can only mean good things.” — Gaten Matarazzo

Hollywood Reporter

• “we're now men, you'll always be my boys.” — Finn Wolfhard

USA Today

Following this episode, SNL is set to feature a lineup of new hosts, including Golden Globe winner Teyana Taylor and actor Alexander Skarsgard, as the show continues its 51st season. Wolfhard's debut not only marks a personal milestone but also reflects the ongoing evolution of SNL as it embraces new talent and cultural references.

Entertainment Weekly