‘SNL’ recap: Best moments from Alexander Skarsgård hosting ‘Saturday Night Live’

SNL” returned to the air for the 12th episode of its 51st season on Saturday, Jan. 31, with actor Alexander Skarsgård as host and rapper (and loyal Star Market shopper) Cardi B as musical guest.

Believe it or not, Skarsgård’s show was the 1000th episode in the long and storied history of “Saturday Night Live.”

There aren’t many shows that can boast that level of longevity, but after celebrating its 50th anniversary for an entire year in 2025, this episode of “SNL” had none of the pomp and circumstance you’d expect for such a milestone.

Instead, it was business as usual at Studio 8H. The show began with a cameo in the political cold open from former “SNL” star Pete Davidson, playing White House border czar Tom Homan. Skarsgård’s dad, “Good Will Hunting” actor Stellan Skarsgård, also made a pair of appearances following his recent Oscar nomination. And Jack McBrayer, best known for his role on the “SNL”-adjacent sitcom “30 Rock,” popped up during Weekend Update.

Not among the cameos was Cardi B’s boyfriend, Patriots wide receive Stefon Diggs, who was presumably too busy hyping up the crowd at Gillette Stadium Sunday morning to swing by Rockefeller Center.

Check out the videos below to see highlights from Alexander Skarsgård’s episode of “SNL,” including Skarsgård’s opening monologue, Cardi B’s musical performances, and all of the characters visiting the “Weekend Update” desk.