Timothée Chalamet is set to make history by taking on both hosting and musical guest duties for the January 25 episode of "Saturday Night Live." This unique appearance marks his third time as host and places him among an elite group of performers who have tackled both roles in a single episode. Amidst a glamorous promotional tour for his biopic, "A Complete Unknown," where he portrays a young Bob Dylan, Chalamet’s involvement with SNL underscores his versatility and growing influence in the entertainment industry. The film, which features Chalamet’s vocals, recreates Dylan's controversial 1965 Newport Folk Festival performance. Critical reception has been mixed, but Dylan himself praised Chalamet’s portrayal. Whether Chalamet will perform any Dylan songs remains to be seen.
The announcement comes at a pivotal moment for Chalamet, who has been receiving significant attention for his role in "A Complete Unknown." The film reimagines the iconic moment when Bob Dylan electrified the Newport Folk Festival in 1965, a turning point in music history. Chalamet’s portrayal of Dylan has garnered mixed reviews from critics, yet it has also earned praise from the legendary musician himself. In a recent post on social media platform X, Dylan commented that Chalamet was “brilliant,” adding a touch of humor to the accolade. Despite this, Chalamet faced some playful teasing at the Golden Globes, where host Nikki Glaser joked about the accuracy—or lack thereof—of his singing voice.
Chalamet’s dual role on SNL is particularly noteworthy given the rarity of such performances. Fewer than 50 individuals have managed to take on both hosting and musical guest duties in a single episode. Previous members of this exclusive club include iconic acts like the Rolling Stones, Olivia Newton-John, Jennifer Lopez, Janet Jackson, Billie Eilish, and most recently, Charli XCX in November. Even more rare are non-professional singers who have served as musical guests, a list that includes Gary Busey, Lily Tomlin, and Deion Sanders. Chalamet’s participation highlights not only his talent but also his willingness to push boundaries.
In addition to Chalamet’s upcoming episode, NBC also announced that comedian Dave Chappelle will host the first show of the year on January 18, with rapper GloRilla serving as the musical guest. Chappelle has previously hosted SNL during significant political moments, including post-presidential election episodes in 2016 and 2020. This lineup promises to kick off 2025 with a series of high-profile and memorable performances.
Beyond the excitement surrounding Chalamet’s dual roles, the broader context of his career and the film "A Complete Unknown" adds depth to this milestone. His ability to seamlessly transition between acting and musical performance showcases his multifaceted talents. As audiences prepare for this unique SNL episode, they can anticipate a blend of comedy, music, and perhaps even a glimpse into the making of a modern classic. Chalamet’s presence on SNL is not just a testament to his current fame but also a nod to the enduring legacy of Bob Dylan and the transformative power of art.