Gorillaz to Make 'SNL' Debut This Weekend with Host Ryan Gosling

The cartoon band is keeping details about their performance under wraps

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Gorillaz, the acclaimed virtual band, is set to make their Saturday Night Live debut this weekend, with actor Ryan Gosling hosting the episode. In promos for the show, SNL cast member Ashley Padilla expresses excitement about Gorillaz finally appearing as the musical guest, but the band members Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett remain tight-lipped, only responding with secretive gestures when asked how they're feeling about the performance.

Why it matters

Gorillaz's SNL debut is a significant milestone for the pioneering virtual band, which has amassed a devoted global following over the past two decades. The appearance will introduce the group's unique animated and musical stylings to a wider audience and build anticipation for their just-released ninth studio album, 'The Mountain'.

The details

In the SNL promos, Padilla asks Albarn and Hewlett how they're feeling about their first-ever SNL performance, but the duo simply respond by painting big smiles on their faces and wiggling their fingers, with Gosling cryptically stating 'It's a secret.' Elsewhere in the video, Padilla admits to watching scenes from Gosling's film 'The Notebook' on her phone during rehearsals for his new movie 'Project Hail Mary', and she also confesses to placing bets on her own behavior during the promos.

  • Gorillaz is set to make their 'Saturday Night Live' debut on March 11, 2026.
  • Gorillaz recently released their ninth studio album 'The Mountain'.
  • Gorillaz has announced a North American tour starting on September 17, 2026 in Orlando, Florida and wrapping up on October 31, 2026 in Seattle.

The players

Gorillaz

Gorillaz is a virtual band created by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett, known for their innovative blend of music genres and animated visuals.

Damon Albarn

Damon Albarn is the co-creator of Gorillaz and the band's primary songwriter and vocalist.

Jamie Hewlett

Jamie Hewlett is the co-creator of Gorillaz and the band's visual artist, responsible for their distinctive animated characters and imagery.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling is the host of the 'Saturday Night Live' episode featuring Gorillaz's debut performance.

Ashley Padilla

Ashley Padilla is an 'SNL' cast member who appears in the promos for the upcoming episode.

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What they’re saying

“Gorillaz! You're one of the best bands ever, and you've never been the musical guest? How are you feeling?”

— Ashley Padilla, SNL Cast Member (SNL Promos)

“It's a secret.”

— Ryan Gosling (SNL Promos)

What’s next

Fans will have to tune in to 'Saturday Night Live' on March 11, 2026 to see Gorillaz's highly anticipated debut performance.

The takeaway

Gorillaz's 'SNL' debut is a landmark moment for the pioneering virtual band, showcasing their innovative musical and visual style to a wider audience and building excitement for their new album and upcoming tour. The secretive nature of their preparations only adds to the anticipation for their first-ever appearance on the iconic sketch comedy show.