Full Breakdown
Ryan Gosling to Host Saturday Night Live with Gorillaz
2/13/2026, 4:06:23 AM
Upcoming Episode Details
Ryan Gosling is set to host "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) for the fourth time on March 7, 2026. This appearance coincides with the promotion of his upcoming film, "Project Hail Mary," which is scheduled for theatrical release on March 20. Gosling will be joined by the virtual band Gorillaz, marking their debut performance on the iconic sketch show. The band is set to perform songs from their new album, "The Mountain," which will be released on February 27.
Background on Ryan Gosling's SNL History
Gosling's previous hosting stints include episodes in December 2015, September 2017, and April 2024. His past appearances have been notable for their comedic sketches, including the viral "Beavis and Butt-Head" sketch from Season 49, which earned him an Emmy nomination. His willingness to break character during live performances has become a hallmark of his SNL identity, contributing to his reputation as a reliable host.
Gorillaz's Debut and Album Release
Gorillaz, led by Damon Albarn, has been a significant presence in the music industry since their formation in 1998 but has never performed on SNL until now. Their upcoming album, "The Mountain," features five pre-released songs, including "The Hardest Thing" and "Orange County." The band's unique animated persona and history of visually inventive performances are anticipated to bring a fresh dynamic to the SNL stage.
Episode Schedule and Additional Hosts
The March 7 episode will follow a previously announced episode on February 28, hosted by Connor Storrie, a breakout star from HBO's "Heated Rivalry," with musical guest Mumford & Sons. The latter will be making their fourth appearance on SNL, promoting their new album "Prizefighter," which releases on February 20. Following Gosling's episode, SNL will air another original episode on March 14, although the host and musical guest for that episode have yet to be announced.
Why It Matters
Gosling's return to SNL is expected to draw significant attention, particularly as it aligns with the promotional efforts for "Project Hail Mary." The combination of Gosling's star power and Gorillaz's debut performance aims to attract a diverse audience, blending comedy and music fans. This strategic pairing reflects SNL's ongoing efforts to maintain relevance and engage viewers with a mix of established and emerging talent.
Official Statements & Responses
NBC confirmed the lineup for the upcoming episodes, emphasizing the show's commitment to featuring a variety of hosts and musical guests. The network has highlighted the anticipation surrounding Gosling's return and Gorillaz's debut, suggesting that both acts will contribute to a memorable episode.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I just feel really really honored,” — Connor Storrie, on hosting SNL
- “The Mountain drops February 27, giving the March 7 episode prime positioning for the album’s first weeks.” — Source Unspecified
This upcoming episode of SNL promises to be a significant event, showcasing the talents of Ryan Gosling and Gorillaz while continuing the show's legacy of blending comedy with musical performances.
