Benson Boone Flips Into His SNL Debut with Host Quinta Brunson

On May 3, 2025, Saturday Night Live (SNL) delivered an unforgettable episode as rising music star Benson Boone made his debut alongside returning host Quinta Brunson. The night was packed with high-energy performances, hilarious sketches, and a few literal flips that left audiences buzzing. Here’s everything you need to know about this standout SNL moment.  

Benson Boone’s Show-Stopping SNL Debut

At just 22 years old, Benson Boone took the SNL stage by storm, performing two tracks from his upcoming album, American Heart. The Grammy-nominated singer, known for hits like “Beautiful Things,” kicked off his first SNL appearance with a jaw-dropping entrance. During his performance of “Sorry I’m Here for Someone Else,” Boone flipped over host Quinta Brunson’s head mid-song, leaving the audience and cast in awe. Dressed in a vibrant purple shirt and pink pants, Boone’s acrobatic move set the tone for a dynamic night.  


Later in the episode, Boone returned to perform “Mystical Magical,” another track from American Heart. His soulful vocals and stage presence highlighted why he’s one of music’s fastest-rising stars. The performances marked a major milestone for Boone, who has been building momentum since his 2021 debut and a standout Coachella 2025 set featuring Queen’s Brian May.  

Quinta Brunson’s Return to SNL

Quinta Brunson, the Emmy-winning creator and star of Abbott Elementary, hosted SNL for the second time. Her first hosting gig in April 2023 included a heartfelt monologue advocating for teachers, and while she didn’t revisit that theme this time, she closed the show with a nod to educators, saying, “Please, remember how important teachers are”.  


Brunson’s comedic chops shone in sketches like a mock game show with puzzling questions and a product pitch segment where she introduced absurd inventions alongside cast members Andrew Dismukes and Heidi Gardner. She also starred in a pre-recorded sketch parodying the episode’s promo, which featured Boone practicing flips with cast member Sarah Sherman.  

The Promo That Set the Stage

Before the live show, NBC released a playful promo teasing Boone’s SNL debut. In the clip, Brunson and Sherman wonder where Boone is before he flips into the frame from stage left. Sherman jokes, “I’ll do one,” pretending to attempt a flip herself. The video highlighted Boone’s athleticism and the lighthearted chemistry between the trio, building excitement for the episode.  

Behind Boone’s SNL Performance

Boone’s SNL appearance wasn’t just about music—it was a statement. In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, he shared, “I want people to know there’s more than just [‘Beautiful Things’]. I’m proud of it, but I’m eager to show growth”. His SNL setlist did exactly that, showcasing new tracks from American Heart, which drops on June 20.  


The singer’s journey to SNL has been meteoric. After gaining fame on TikTok and withdrawing from American Idol in 2021, Boone signed with Dan Reynolds’ Night Street Records and released chart-toppers like “Ghost Town” and “In the Stars”. His SNL debut solidifies his place in pop culture, following performances at major festivals like Coachella and a slot opening for Taylor Swift’s London Eras Tour.  

A Night of Firsts and Nostalgia

This episode was part of SNL’s landmark 50th season, which has featured heavyweights like Lady Gaga, Timothée Chalamet, and Chris Rock. For Boone, it was his first time on the SNL stage, while Brunson’s return reminded viewers why she’s a comedy powerhouse. The pair’s collaboration—marked by flips, laughs, and Brunson’s signature side-eye during Boone’s serenade—created viral moments that dominated social media.  

What’s Next for Benson Boone?

With American Heart on the horizon, Boone is poised for a huge summer. The album, announced during his Coachella set, promises to blend emotional ballads and upbeat anthems. Fans can catch him next at festivals like Riverbeat Music Fest in Memphis and a European tour.  


As for Brunson, she’ll return to Abbott Elementary, which continues to dominate awards season. Her SNL hosting gig reaffirmed her versatility, proving she can pivot from heartfelt sitcom moments to sketch comedy absurdity.  

Why This SNL Episode Mattered

1. Boone’s Star Power: His athletic performances and vocal talent showcased an artist ready for the big leagues.  

2. Brunson’s Comedy Legacy: Her sketches celebrated her Second City roots and ability to connect with audiences.  

3. A Boost for SNL’s 50th Season: The episode kept the show’s golden season fresh with new talent and returning favorites.  

How to Watch

Missed the live show? The episode is streaming on Peacock, along with past seasons of SNL. Boone’s performances and Brunson’s sketches are already trending online, so don’t wait to catch up.  

Final Thoughts

Benson Boone and Quinta Brunson brought humor, heart, and high-flying energy to SNL. Whether you’re a fan of Boone’s music, Brunson’s comedy, or just great live TV, this episode had it all. As Boone sang in “Mystical Magical,” the night truly felt like “a little bit of magic”—and a preview of even bigger things to come.  


Saturday Night Live airs Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. ET/8:30 p.m. PT on NBC and streams live on Peacock.