Why Is SNL Late Tonight?

Nick Leason

-Oct 19, 2025

Is Saturday Night Live (SNL) starting later than usual tonight? The show, a staple of Saturday night television, typically airs at 11:30 PM Eastern Time. However, there are a few reasons why the show might be delayed. Read on to discover the potential causes of a late SNL start time, ensuring you don't miss a minute of the live comedy and musical performances.

Key Takeaways

SNL usually airs at 11:30 PM ET, but there are exceptions.
Potential delays can be due to sports, special programming, or Daylight Saving Time.
Check your local listings to confirm the exact start time.
Late starts are often due to extended sports coverage on the same network.

Introduction

Saturday Night Live has been a Saturday night tradition for decades, providing viewers with a mix of comedy, political satire, and musical performances. Hosted by a new celebrity guest each week, and featuring a cast of talented comedians, the show is known for its live format and unpredictable nature. However, sometimes, the familiar opening theme music doesn't kick off exactly when expected. This guide explores the reasons why SNL might start late, helping you to troubleshoot any scheduling surprises.

What & Why

There are several reasons why SNL might be delayed. Understanding these factors can help you avoid missing the beginning of the show:

Sports Overruns: One of the most common causes for a late SNL start is extended sports coverage. If a sporting event runs longer than scheduled on the same network (NBC), the SNL broadcast will be pushed back to accommodate the end of the game and the transition to the next program. This is particularly frequent during the NFL season or when major sports events are televised.
Special Programming: Sometimes, NBC may air special programming before SNL, such as holiday specials, award shows, or other pre-scheduled events. These programs can shift the entire schedule, including the start time of SNL.
Daylight Saving Time: The twice-yearly time changes due to Daylight Saving Time (DST) can also affect the schedule. While SNL typically airs at the same time slot regardless, DST changes can sometimes cause confusion, so it's always a good idea to double-check the listings.
Local Affiliates: Individual NBC affiliates may occasionally have their programming schedules that differ from the national broadcast. This is rare, but some affiliates might choose to air local news or other content, which could affect when SNL begins in your area. Always check local listings to confirm the exact broadcast time.

Benefits of Watching SNL

Comedy and Entertainment: SNL offers a weekly dose of sketch comedy, delivering laughs with its unique blend of topical humor, celebrity impressions, and original characters. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy a variety of comedic styles.
Cultural Relevance: The show reflects and shapes the current cultural and political landscape. By satirizing news, trends, and public figures, it keeps viewers informed and engaged with what’s happening in the world.
Musical Performances: SNL features live musical performances by some of the biggest names in the music industry. The show provides a platform for both established artists and rising stars to showcase their music to a massive audience.
Discovering New Talent: Over the years, SNL has launched the careers of many comedic greats, from Chevy Chase and Bill Murray to Tina Fey and Adam Sandler. Watching the show can be a way to discover the next generation of comedy stars.

Potential Risks

Late Nights: Watching SNL can mean staying up late, especially if the show is delayed. This could affect your sleep schedule.
Dependence: The weekly nature of SNL can create a sense of anticipation and regular viewing. For some, this routine could become a habit.
Content Considerations: As a live program, SNL sometimes features edgy or controversial content. Viewers should be aware that the show might not be suitable for all audiences, and parental guidance is advised.

How-To / Steps / Framework Application

If you're wondering when SNL will start, here's a step-by-step guide to help you find out:

Check Your Local TV Listings: The most reliable way to know the exact start time is to consult your local TV listings. You can find these on your cable or satellite provider's website, TV Guide, or the NBC website.
Use a TV Guide App or Website: Several websites and apps provide up-to-date TV schedules. Enter your zip code or location to see the listings for your area.
Confirm the Network: Double-check that you're looking at the NBC schedule, as SNL airs on this network. Some listings may show different channels with similar names.
Look for Alerts: Some TV guide services will provide alerts if the schedule has changed. Keep an eye out for any notices about delays or special programming.
Set a Reminder: Once you know the correct start time, set a reminder on your phone or TV to ensure you don't miss the beginning of the show.

Examples & Use Cases

Here are some real-life scenarios to illustrate why SNL might be late: — The UPS Store St. Cloud MN: Services & Solutions

Scenario 1: NFL Overtime: During the NFL season, a Sunday night football game goes into overtime. As a result, SNL, which is scheduled to follow the game, will start later than 11:30 PM ET to accommodate the extended game coverage.
Scenario 2: Special Holiday Programming: NBC decides to air a Thanksgiving special before SNL. The holiday program pushes back the regular schedule, and SNL might begin at 12:00 AM ET or later.
Scenario 3: Daylight Saving Time Confusion: The clocks change for Daylight Saving Time. Viewers forget to adjust and end up tuning in at the wrong time. Checking the local listings confirms the correct start time.
Scenario 4: Award Show Lead-In: An award show, such as the Golden Globes, airs on NBC before SNL. The award show's length delays SNL's start time, as the network transitions between programs.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

To avoid missing SNL or getting frustrated by potential delays, follow these best practices: — Ohtani Home Runs: Stats, Records, And Highlights

Always Check Listings: Make it a habit to check your local TV listings on Saturday evenings. This simple step will provide the most accurate start time.
Account for Sports: Be aware of potential sports overruns, particularly during football and other major sporting events. These are the most common cause of delays.
Use Multiple Sources: Don't rely on just one source for scheduling information. Cross-reference your TV guide with the NBC website or a TV listings app.
Be Patient: Delays are sometimes unavoidable. If SNL is running late, try to be patient and enjoy any pre-show content that might be available.
Avoid Assumptions: Don't assume SNL will start at its usual time. Always confirm the schedule, especially if there's any chance of special programming or sports overruns.

Common Mistakes

Relying on Memory: Assuming the show starts at 11:30 PM ET without checking is a common mistake. Schedules can change, so verify the time.
Ignoring Sports: Failing to consider that sports overruns may delay the start of SNL.
Not Checking Local Listings: Using only a national TV guide instead of checking your local listings can lead to incorrect information.
Giving Up Too Soon: If SNL is late, some viewers give up and miss the show entirely. Wait a few minutes to see if the broadcast starts.

FAQs

How can I find out the exact start time for SNL tonight?
- The best way to find out the exact start time is to check your local TV listings, online TV guides, or the NBC website.
Why does SNL sometimes start late?
- The most common reasons for a late start are extended sports coverage, special programming, and time changes.
Does Daylight Saving Time affect SNL's schedule?
- Yes, DST can cause confusion, so it's essential to confirm the schedule when the clocks change.
What happens if a sporting event runs late?
- If a sporting event runs over its allotted time, SNL will be delayed to accommodate the end of the game.
Where can I watch SNL if I miss the live broadcast?
- SNL episodes are often available on streaming services like Peacock the next day.

Conclusion with CTA

Now you know the common reasons why SNL might start late. Stay informed, be patient, and always check your local listings to ensure you don't miss a single sketch or musical performance. Enjoy the show! — Ryder Cup Sunday: What Happened?

Last updated: October 26, 2024, 11:15 UTC