Lady Gaga Brings Mayhem to SNL with New Album Performances

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Lady Gaga took the stage on Saturday Night Live as both host and musical guest on March 8, just one day after releasing her seventh studio album, Mayhem. The 38-year-old pop superstar delivered an electrifying performance that showcased her new music and comedic talent.

The evening began with a comedic monologue where Gaga humorously poked fun at her role in the movie Joker: Folie à Deux. She referenced her previous SNL hosting debut in 2013, which featured a guest appearance by the now-imprisoned R. Kelly. “I’m an actor now,” Gaga quipped, “I select films that would showcase my craft as a serious actor.”

During her SNL performance, Gaga showcased two highly energetic tracks from Mayhem. She opened with the dance-pop anthem “Abracadabra,” donning a sparkly red outfit amid a backdrop of swirling neon lights and dancers sporting long red wigs. For her second performance, she transitioned to the funk-inspired song “Killah,” starting backstage at Studio 8H before exploding onto the main stage for a vibrant dance party filling the studio with a live band and high-energy visuals.

Gaga’s appearances come more than a decade after her first hosting gig on the show in 2013. The timing is significant, as the new album follows a successful 2025, which saw her collaborate with Bruno Mars on the hit single “Die With a Smile.” That song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for five weeks, marking her second-longest-running No. 1 hit since 2011’s “Born This Way.”

The album features contributions from a range of producers, including Andrew Watt and Cirkut, as well as her fiancé, Michael Polansky. In a recent interview, Gaga emphasized the intentional chaotic vibe of Mayhem, stating, “There have been times in my career where I had an idea in terms of how to conceptually approach a record…but with this album, it felt like pieces coming together.”

Gaga’s SNL monologue also included playful jabs about her past and age, before she dove into her performances. “I know you might be thinking I’m here to promote my album, but I’m actually here to remind you that I’m an amazing actor,” she said, highlighting her growth as an artist since her last time hosting the show.

Looking ahead, fans are eagerly awaiting potential tour announcements. While speaking on Australian radio, Gaga hinted she would announce new tour dates soon, expressing her longing to return to Australia. “I miss my fans there so much,” she remarked, reflecting on her fond memories of touring the country.

Having last performed in Australia in 2014, Gaga’s fans are hopeful for new tour announcements as Mayhem continues to gain attention in the music industry. Gaga shared that the diverse sounds on this album, which incorporate elements from various genres, reflect her journey and desire to have fun in her music-making process.