Lady Gaga Shines as Host and Musical Guest on Saturday Night Live
New York, NY — Lady Gaga made a spectacular return to Saturday Night Live (SNL) as both host and musical guest on the show’s latest episode, marking a vibrant celebration of her recently released seventh studio album, MAYHEM. With a medley of entertaining sketches and dynamic musical performances, Gaga captivated the audience in Studio 8H, reaffirming her status as a versatile entertainer.
Musical Performances and Album Highlights
During her appearance, Gaga delivered a striking performance of her single “Abracadabra”, which showcased her flair for theatricality while singing from a light-up mirrored box. This was followed by the debut of her new track “Killah”, performed in the back hallways of SNL’s studio before she transitioned to the main stage, where she was met by her neon-clad band and executed an impressive costume change that left viewers in awe.
Gaga’s latest album, MAYHEM, has received attention for its eclectic mix of sounds and themes, which she highlighted during the night. Fans can explore her album by listening to it on various platforms, with specific tracks generating significant buzz.
Sketch Comedy and Personal Reflections
In addition to her musical talents, Gaga’s comedic prowess was on full display as she appeared in several sketches, including a memorable role as a funeral home director. She humorously reflected on her past SNL experience, joking, “The last time I hosted was in 2013, and every aspect of my performance…aged amazingly. There’s no need to google ‘SNL 2013 Lady Gaga featuring R. Kelly.’ We all won’t, and I won’t bring it up, cause that would be bad.”
Gaga also poked fun at her Razzie-winning role in Joker: Folie à Deux and shared a personal anecdote about how her mother helped set her up with her fiancé. These moments added a personal touch to her return, endearing her further to fans and viewers.
A Unique Record in SNL History
This episode marks only Gaga’s second time hosting SNL, yet she has made five musical guest appearances on the show. Her previous performances include standout moments during major events, such as her rendition of "Hold My Hand" at the 2025 Super Bowl and a collaborative cover with Bruno Mars at the 2025 Grammy Awards, where they won the Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “Die With a Smile”. Gaga also participated in the SNL 50th anniversary concert alongside other notable names, further solidifying her long-standing relationship with the show.
Lady Gaga joins Timothée Chalamet and Charli XCX as the third artist to hold both hosting and musical guest duties during this milestone 50th season of SNL. Last week’s guest was Tate McRae, as the show continues to celebrate its legacy through a series of impressive performances and special events.
Conclusion: The Impact of Gaga’s Return
Gaga’s performance on SNL not only offered a platform for her new music but also highlighted her multifaceted identity as both an artist and a performer. Her ability to weave personal narratives into her performance, along with her comedic delivery, demonstrates the depth of her talent and connection with the audience. As the 50th season of SNL progresses, Gaga’s appearance serves as a reminder of the show’s enduring influence on music and pop culture, showcasing how artists continue to evolve while maintaining their roots.
For a deeper dive into Lady Gaga’s new album MAYHEM and track reviews for “Abracadabra” and “Garden of Eden,” fans are encouraged to check out the music on various platforms and explore what the pop icon has in store for the rest of the year.
