Lady Gaga is making a highly anticipated return to Saturday Night Live (SNL) this season, taking on double duty as both the host and musical guest on the March 8, 2025, episode. This appearance comes at a significant moment in her career, as it coincides with the release of her much-awaited seventh studio album, Mayhem, which is set to drop just one day before, on March 7.
This will mark the second time that the Grammy and Oscar-winning artist will both host and perform on SNL. The last time she held both roles was in 2013, an episode that was widely praised for showcasing her comedic skills alongside her musical talent. Throughout her career, she has appeared on SNL multiple times—previously serving as the musical guest four times and making a surprise cameo during a 2023 episode.
Lady Gaga’s Return to SNL: What to Expect
Fans are eager to see what Lady Gaga will bring to the table, both as a host and performer. Given her theatrical stage presence and versatility, expectations are high for a night filled with elaborate musical numbers and memorable sketches.
Her new album Mayhem has been generating significant buzz, with industry insiders hinting that the project will be a departure from her previous works. Known for constantly reinventing her sound, Gaga’s latest release is rumored to feature a blend of pop, rock, and electronic influences, along with collaborations with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Performing on SNL will give audiences a first glimpse into this new era of her music.
In addition to her music, Gaga is also known for her dramatic performances, which have earned her critical acclaim in film and television. Her ability to seamlessly shift between different creative realms makes her an exciting choice for hosting SNL. If history is any indication, audiences can expect her to fully commit to the show’s comedic sketches, likely delivering an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Shane Gillis and Tate McRae Set for March 1 Episode
Ahead of Lady Gaga’s episode, SNL will welcome comedian Shane Gillis as the host for the March 1 episode. This will be Gillis’ second time taking on the hosting role, a return that carries added significance given his controversial history with the show.
Gillis was initially hired as an SNL cast member in 2019 but was fired before making his debut after past offensive remarks he made on a podcast resurfaced. Despite his dismissal, Gillis has built a successful stand-up career and found an audience through online comedy platforms. When he first hosted SNL in February 2024, he directly addressed his past in his opening monologue, a move that generated considerable discussion among fans and critics alike. His return to the SNL stage suggests that the show is willing to give him another chance to showcase his comedic talents.
Joining Gillis for the March 1 episode will be Canadian pop singer Tate McRae as the musical guest. McRae, who has been gaining momentum in the music industry, first performed on SNL in 2023. She will be returning to promote her latest album, So Close to What, which is set for release on February 21. Her unique blend of pop and R&B has earned her a dedicated fanbase, and her performance is expected to highlight some of her latest hits.
SNL Celebrates Its 50th Season with Star-Studded Specials
Lady Gaga’s return to SNL is happening during the show’s historic 50th season, a milestone that NBC has celebrated with multiple special events. Recently, SNL50: The Homecoming Concert brought together a wide range of musical and comedic talent to commemorate the show’s legacy. The event, which was livestreamed on Peacock, saw performances from legendary artists and included a surprise appearance by Lady Gaga herself. During the concert, she performed alongside comedian and former SNL cast member Andy Samberg in a medley that featured both iconic pop hits and comedic sketches adapted into musical performances.
Another major event in the show’s 50th-anniversary celebrations was SNL50: The Anniversary Special, a three-and-a-half-hour primetime television special that aired on NBC. The special featured a mix of classic sketches, surprise cameos, and a closing performance by Sir Paul McCartney, which made for an emotional and nostalgic conclusion. According to NBC, the special became the network’s most-watched primetime entertainment telecast in five years, with nearly 15 million viewers tuning in.
Lady Gaga’s Personal and Professional Life in the Spotlight
Beyond her return to SNL, Lady Gaga has been making headlines for both her professional and personal life. In addition to releasing Mayhem, she has been working on several high-profile collaborations and projects. Recent reports suggest that she has been actively involved in various philanthropic efforts, including continued support for mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights, causes she has long championed through her Born This Way Foundation.
On the personal front, Gaga is engaged to Michael Polansky, a San Francisco-based venture capitalist. Their relationship has garnered attention not just for their romance but also for their creative collaboration. Polansky has played a role in Gaga’s musical journey, having co-produced Mayhem and co-written several tracks on the album. Their partnership extends beyond music, with speculation that he may make an appearance—either on stage or in the audience—during Gaga’s SNL episode.
Where and How to Watch SNL
For fans eager to watch Lady Gaga’s episode of Saturday Night Live, the show airs live on NBC and streams on Peacock at 11:30 p.m. ET. The current cast includes a mix of veteran and new talent, with Mikey Day, Chloe Fineman, Heidi Gardner, Bowen Yang, and Weekend Update co-anchors Michael Che and Colin Jost leading the lineup.
With an exciting mix of comedy, music, and high-profile guest appearances, the upcoming episodes of SNL promise to be must-watch television. Whether you’re a fan of Lady Gaga, Shane Gillis, or Tate McRae, there’s something for everyone in the March episodes of Saturday Night Live.
