'SNL' just wrapped its 51st season: It's time to cruelly rank its musical guests
Saturday Night Live has concluded its 51st season, which featured a diverse lineup of musical guests. The season included performances from both established artists and emerging talents, showcasing a mix of genres. As is tradition, the season's musical performances are being ranked, highlighting the challenges of evaluating live shows.
- ▪Doja Cat was the musical guest for the season premiere, hosted by Bad Bunny.
- ▪The season saw significant cast turnover, including Bowen Yang's departure.
- ▪Musical guests ranged from contemporary stars like Harry Styles to legends like Paul McCartney.
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| Canonical URL | https://www.npr.org/2026/05/18/nx-s1-5825873/snl-season-51-musical-guests-ranked |
| Publication time | Mon, 18 May 2026 17:23:41 -0400 |
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Music 'SNL' just wrapped its 51st season: It's time to cruelly rank its musical guests May 18, 20265:23 PM ET Stephen Thompson Doja Cat was the musical guest on the season premiere of Saturday Night Live's 51st season, an episode hosted by Bad Bunny. Will Heath/NBC hide caption toggle caption Will Heath/NBC SNL's 51st season was bound to feel transitional: It followed the round-numbered spectacle of Season 50, which produced many accompanying specials and celebrations, and it accompanied a fair bit of cast turnover — including Bowen Yang, who departed with a song midway through the season, accompanied by Cher and Ariana Grande.
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