Entertainment Highlights: SNL Tonight, NFL Anthems, Special TV Events and More

Tonight’s Saturday Night Live will feature actor Adam Driver as the show’s host with country star Chris Stapleton providing the musical performance. The episode airs at 11:30 PM on NBC and brings together Driver, known for his dramatic and comedic range, and Stapleton, acclaimed for his soulful country sound. Expect a mix of sketches and musical energy fitting SNL’s live, late-night format.

Scotty McCreery to Sing National Anthem at Patriots vs. Chiefs Playoff

Country singer Scotty McCreery is scheduled to perform the National Anthem at today’s AFC playoff matchup between the New England Patriots and the Kansas City Chiefs. The anthem performance will precede the game broadcast on CBS at 4:35 PM. McCreery, who rose to fame after winning American Idol, is often called on for high-profile national anthem appearances, and this moment continues that tradition on one of the NFL’s largest stages.

Jordan Smith and B.o.B. Set for Seahawks vs. Panthers Divisional Round

At the divisional round matchup between the Seattle Seahawks and the Carolina Panthers, audiences will hear a national anthem performance by Jordan Smith ahead of kickoff. Smith, a Kentucky native who won season nine of NBC’s The Voice, has achieved notable commercial success with over one million singles sold, making him one of the show’s most successful alumni. The game-day music lineup also includes recording artist B.o.B., contributing to a varied entertainment slate for fans attending and watching the playoff contest. (Source: Seahawks.com)

Derek Hough to Host Disneyland 60th Anniversary Television Special

Two-time Emmy winner and six-time Dancing with the Stars champion Derek Hough will serve as master of ceremonies for The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60 television special. The program, slated to air on February 21, celebrates Disneyland’s 60th anniversary and will feature fellow DWTS champion Witney Carson alongside Hough. The special promises a mixture of musical numbers, guest appearances, and family-friendly moments as part of Disney’s commemorative programming. (Source: US Magazine)

Carrie Underwood to Highlight Women in Country at Las Vegas Concert

Country superstar Carrie Underwood will lead a Women of Country night on April 1 at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds, part of ACM’s Party for a Cause. Underwood has spoken openly about the importance of showcasing female country artists, noting the persistent challenge women face in securing equal representation on festival rosters. “There are a lot [of women] right now just waiting for their chance,” she says, emphasizing that audiences do want to hear more female voices in country music. The following nights of the ACM event will be hosted by Dierks Bentley on April 2 and Kenny Chesney on April 3, forming a multi-night slate that highlights established artists and rising talent. (Source: Taste of Country)

Empire Co-Creator Addresses Guest Star Rumors, Previews Season Three

As Empire prepares to return, co-creator Danny Strong has addressed rumors about high-profile guest appearances, saying that certain speculated names, such as Oprah Winfrey and Mariah Carey, will not be joining the cast. Strong also indicated that the show plans to scale back on stunt casting, favoring story-driven guest roles over frequent celebrity cameos. Empire’s first season made a major cultural impact, and while season two featured several well-known guest stars, the creative team appears intent on balancing narrative focus with the occasional prominent guest when it serves the story. The series is slated to return on March 30. (Source: Billboard)

These varied entertainment updates cover live television, major sports events, concert programming, and scripted television developments. From Saturday Night Live’s live broadcast to playoff anthems and anniversary specials, fans have a wide range of performances and broadcasts to anticipate in the coming days.