A major late-night television milestone is on the horizon for a homegrown talent. Vancouver actor and musician Finn Wolfhard is set to take the helm of Saturday Night Live as the host of the legendary sketch show's first episode of 2026.
A Prime-Time Spotlight for a Vancouver Star
The Season 52 premiere of SNL is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026. Wolfhard will command the iconic Studio 8H stage, marking a significant career highlight for the young performer. Joining him for the evening will be chart-topping musical guest A$AP Rocky, who is expected to perform tracks from his forthcoming album, Don't Be Dumb, slated for release just one day prior on January 16.
This hosting gig arrives at a pivotal moment for Wolfhard, who will celebrate his 23rd birthday on December 23. His rise to fame began nearly a decade ago when he was just 12 years old, following the explosive debut of Netflix's Stranger Things in 2016. Wolfhard has played the central role of Mike Wheeler throughout the series' entire run.
From Hawkins to Hollywood and Beyond
The SNL invitation caps off a monumental period for the actor, coinciding with the conclusion of the global phenomenon that launched his career. The final season of Stranger Things is currently unfolding, with the first four episodes of Season 5 already streaming. The series will reach its epic conclusion with new episodes dropping on Christmas Day, culminating in a two-hour series finale on New Year's Eve.
Wolfhard's portfolio extends far beyond the Upside Down. He has built a formidable filmography that includes major roles in the Ghostbusters and It franchises, as well as appearances in The Goldfinch and When You Finish Saving the World. Notably, he has a direct connection to the SNL world, having played an NBC page in the 2024 feature film Saturday Night.
As a true multihyphenate, Wolfhard's talents are not confined to acting. He is an accomplished voice actor, a musician who released his debut solo album Happy Birthday earlier this year, and a filmmaker who co-directed the feature Hell of a Summer.
Hints at a Fiery Finale for Stranger Things
During a recent cast panel at The Paley Museum in New York City on December 18, Wolfhard offered a tantalizing tease about his character's arc in the final episodes. Known for his thoughtful and strategic approach, Mike Wheeler might be embracing a more combative side. "I have a weapon in this season. That's all I'll say," Wolfhard revealed, sparking speculation among fans about what's in store for the final battle in Hawkins.
With the Stranger Things era drawing to a close, Wolfhard's hosting debut on one of television's most prestigious stages signals an exciting new chapter. On January 17, 2026, audiences will see the Vancouver-born star step into the live comedy spotlight, continuing to cement his status as one of Canada's most successful and versatile young exports in entertainment.
