Saturday Night Live celebrated its milestone 50th season with a lineup of unforgettable performances, blending legendary tributes, genre-bending acts, and powerful debuts. From A-list actors stepping into musical roles to rising stars making their mark, the season delivered moments that will be remembered for years to come.
Timothée Chalamet Channels Bob Dylan
One of the most talked-about performances of the season came from Timothée Chalamet, who pulled double duty as both host and musical guest. As part of his commitment to portraying Bob Dylan in the biopic A Complete Unknown, Chalamet took the SNL stage with a stunning rendition of Tomorrow Is a Long Time. His haunting vocal delivery and near-perfect Dylan mannerisms made for an unforgettable moment that blurred the lines between performance and tribute.
Shaboozey’s Genre-Blending Set
Rising artist Shaboozey brought his signature fusion of hip-hop, country, and rock to the SNL stage, delivering one of the most refreshing performances of the season. Backed by his band—including guitarist Dan Graham and drummer Darren Poindexter—Shaboozey’s electrifying set showcased his ability to cross genres seamlessly. His performance stood as a testament to SNL’s continued dedication to spotlighting innovative new artists.
GloRilla’s High-Energy Debut
Hip-hop had a major presence in SNL’s 50th season, with GloRilla making a powerful debut that had audiences on their feet. Known for her commanding presence and bold lyricism, she delivered an explosive performance that cemented her as one of the most exciting rappers of the moment. Her set was a reminder of SNL’s role in pushing the culture forward by embracing new voices in music.
Billie Eilish’s Hypnotic Return
Already a veteran of the SNL stage, Billie Eilish returned in the show’s landmark season with a performance that was equal parts eerie and mesmerizing. Stripping down her latest single to its emotional core, Eilish proved once again that she can captivate an audience with nothing but her haunting vocals and an intimate stage setup. Her performance was a highlight of the season, reaffirming her status as one of the most compelling artists of her generation.
Gracie Abrams’ Emotional Breakthrough
Making her SNL debut in its historic 50th season, Gracie Abrams delivered a vulnerable, heartfelt performance that left a lasting impact. Known for her deeply personal songwriting, Abrams brought raw emotion to the stage, proving why she’s one of the most exciting new artists in the industry. Her ability to connect with the audience made her performance a standout moment in a season full of musical highs.
As Saturday Night Live kicks off its milestone 50th season, these performances have already set the bar high. With plenty more episodes ahead, fans can expect even more unforgettable moments, surprise guests, and legendary musical acts as the show continues to celebrate half a century of comedy and culture.
Words by Ines B.
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