NEW YORK, NY – Saturday Night Live concluded its latest season on May 17, marked by viral sketches, standout performances from cast members like Bowen Yang and Chloe Fineman, and buzzworthy appearances from hosts including Pedro Pascal and Jenna Ortega, as well as musical guest Olivia Rodrigo.

• Season Finale Recap (May 17, 2025): The latest season of Saturday Night Live wrapped up, leaving behind a trail of viral sketches and memorable celebrity appearances.
• Standout Stars: Cast members like Bowen Yang and Chloe Fineman delivered consistently hilarious performances and breakout characters, while newer talent like Michael Longfellow made their mark.
• Buzzworthy Hosts & Guests: Pedro Pascal’s comedic commitment and Jenna Ortega’s surprising deadpan humor, alongside musical performances from artists like Olivia Rodrigo, generated significant online discussion.

A Season of Viral Velocity and Star-Powered Surprises

As the final “Live from New York” of the season echoed, it capped a year of Saturday Night Live that consistently found its way into the cultural conversation. This season wasn’t just about laughs; it was about the moments that exploded online, fueled by both the sharp wit of the cast and the willingness of celebrity hosts to dive headfirst into the show’s unpredictable waters.

Recurring Brilliance and Breakout Moments

While the guest hosts often steal headlines, the backbone of SNL remains its cast, and this season saw several members shine particularly bright. Bowen Yang, for instance, consistently delivered memorable performances. His recurring character, the “Trend Forecaster” on Weekend Update, became a reliable source of comedic gold, often dissecting the often-absurd trends and cultural anxieties of the moment with a perfect blend of absurdity and relatability. Similarly, Chloe Fineman showcased her versatility with spot-on celebrity impressions, particularly her takes on figures like Jennifer Coolidge and Timothée Chalamet, earning her significant praise and online traction. Beyond established players, this season also saw Michael Longfellow emerge as a fresh comedic voice, with his dry wit and observational humor landing particularly well in several sketches and Weekend Update appearances, hinting at a promising future for the show’s ensemble.

The A-List Effect: Hosts Who Ignited the Internet

The roster of guest hosts this season was a potent mix of seasoned veterans and first-timers, each bringing their unique energy to Studio 8H. Pedro Pascal proved to be a natural fit for the SNL stage. His willingness to embrace the bizarre, particularly in the now-viral sketch about a hyper-realistic Mario Kart movie, demonstrated a comedic commitment that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Conversely, Jenna Ortega surprised many with her darkly funny and deadpan delivery, leading to widespread discussion about her range and connection with the audience, especially in sketches that played on her serious on-screen persona. Even musical guests contributed to the season’s memorable moments. Olivia Rodrigo‘s powerful performances and engaging stage presence left a lasting impression, further cementing SNL’s role as a platform for impactful cultural moments.

Beyond the Laughs: Reflecting the Zeitgeist

While comedy remains the core of SNL, the show’s ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist is a key to its longevity. This season tackled the ongoing debates surrounding artificial intelligence and its impact on society with its signature blend of satire and pointed commentary. Sketches that addressed the anxieties around deepfakes and the ethical implications of AI-generated content often sparked debate and provided a comedic lens through which to view complex issues. While not every joke landed perfectly, the show’s willingness to engage with the present, often just hours before airtime, remains a crucial aspect of its appeal. As this season concludes, it leaves behind a trail of viral moments, breakout stars, and a reminder of SNL’s enduring ability to make us laugh while simultaneously holding a mirror up to our world.