SNL Taps Teyana Taylor & Alexander Skarsgård to Shake Up January Lineup

If this winter’s Saturday Night Live was craving a shot of star power and surprise, January 2026 is delivering it in spades. NBC’s long-running sketch juggernaut has announced that Teyana Taylor and Alexander Skarsgård are set to host back-to-back episodes later this month and the results could be equal parts awards-season buzz and unpredictable live chaos.

On January 24, SNL will hand the mic (and the monologue) to Teyana Taylor, marking her first time leading the show. The multitalented performer and actress currently riding high on Oscar-season buzz brings gritty charisma and real-world credibility to the SNL stage. She’ll be paired with indie rock breakout Geese as the musical guest, marking the band’s first live performance on the iconic show.

Taylor isn’t your typical comedy host, but that’s exactly the point. Her presence promises fresh sketches, a potentially unforgettable monologue, and the kind of cultural crossover SNL thrives on. Fans can expect moments that feel both bold and surprising, a perfect match for her dynamic energy.

The very next week, January 31 brings another first-timer behind the SNL curtain: Alexander Skarsgård. The Swedish actor, whose resume spans vampire drama to indie hits, may not be known for comedy but that’s part of the fun. He’ll be joined by Cardi B, returning as musical guest. Her brash stage persona and chart-topping hits make her a ratings draw, and pairing her with Skarsgård’s dramatic energy could lead to some delightfully unexpected moments.

These bookings show SNL’s commitment to mixing prestige acting talent and music industry heavyweights while also spotlighting emergent artists a strategy that keeps the show culturally relevant as it approaches its 1,000th episode. Teyana Taylor’s episode feels like awards-season cross-promotion with a twist, while Skarsgård’s turn hints at the quirky unpredictability that has long defined the series.

Whether you’re tuning in for Taylor’s fire monologue, cheering on Geese’s breakout moment, or bracing yourself for Skarsgård’s comedic curveballs, January’s Saturday Night Live lineup is serving fresh energy. Stick with the show this month it might just remind you why live TV still matters.