According to LateNighter, the live broadcast was pushed back by 16 minutes due to extended coverage of an earlier college football matchup between USC and Oregon. NBC gave local affiliates the option to air the show live at 11:30 p.m. or on a brief delay, adding an unexpected scheduling twist to an already high-profile season opener.
A Rare Hosting Turn for an Active NBA Star
Brunson’s hosting debut marks a notable milestone for the late-night franchise. He is the first active NBA player to host Saturday Night Live since LeBron James took the stage in 2007. Previous basketball greats to host the season premiere include Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley, placing Brunson in elite athletic company just months after leading the New York Knicks to their first NBA championship since 1973.
The premiere also introduced global girl group KATSEYE to the Studio 8H stage for their first musical guest appearance. The six-member group arrived fresh off a breakout run that included a Grammy nomination, a new EP, and a sold-out tour.
Cast Shakeups and Upcoming Schedule
Season 52 brings fresh energy to the long-running sketch comedy show, featuring newly promoted repertory players Ashley Padilla and Jane Wickline alongside new featured players Grace Reiter and Saidah Belo-Osagie.
Following the premiere, NBC has already mapped out the immediate October slate. Dakota Johnson is scheduled to host the October 3 episode with rock band Turnstile, followed by Shane Gillis and musical guest Rosalía on October 10. An upcoming Halloween episode on October 31 will feature breakout star Inde Navarrette making her hosting debut alongside returning musical guest Gracie Abrams.