Gorillaz are heading to Studio 8H. The British virtual band will make their long-awaited debut on Saturday Night Live on March 7, with Ryan Gosling set to host the episode for the fourth time.
The booking arrives at a pivotal moment for the group. Just days earlier, on February 27, Gorillaz will release their ninth studio album, The Mountain, via their own label Kong, distributed by Sony Music’s The Orchard. The project marks their first release without the involvement of Parlophone or Warner Records since the band’s hiatus era.
Created by Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett, Gorillaz have built a 25-year career on hybrid experimentation. Their music blends hip-hop, alternative rock, electronic textures, and global influences, often accompanied by immersive animated visuals.
The Mountain carries considerable weight within the band’s catalog. The album features an expansive list of collaborators, including posthumous appearances from Dennis Hopper, Bobby Womack, David Jolicoeur of De La Soul, Tony Allen, Proof, and Mark E. Smith. It also incorporates performances in English, Arabic, Hindi, Spanish, and Yoruba.
The record was first previewed in full during the band’s 25th anniversary “House of Kong” exhibition in 2025. A supporting arena tour will follow, beginning March 21 in Manchester.
Ryan Gosling’s return as SNL host adds further profile to the night. The actor, whose previous hosting stints include episodes alongside Leon Bridges, Jay-Z, and Chris Stapleton, is promoting his upcoming sci-fi film Project Hail Mary, set for theatrical release in mid-March 2026.
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