SNL to Start Late Tonight After College Football Game

New York, NY – NBC‘s Saturday Night Live will begin airing tonight at 11:42 p.m. ET, following the network’s extended coverage of the college football game between USC and Notre Dame.

This marks the show’s second late start in recent history. The last time SNL started late was just a year ago, on October 12, 2024, when Ariana Grande hosted with musical guest Stevie Nicks. On that occasion, the show kicked off at 12:35 a.m.

Tonight’s late start is notable as it represents the longest delay since November 7, 2020, when SNL began at 12:17 a.m. This pattern of delays often occurs during major sporting events that run long.

SNL fans are advised to tune in at the special time to catch all the sketches and performances planned for tonight’s episode.