Cher Delivers Holiday Magic on ‘SNL’ With ‘DJ Play a Christmas Song’ and ‘Run Rudolph Run’, proving once again that her star power transcends generations. The legendary pop icon returned to the Saturday Night Live stage on December 20, bringing festive energy, timeless charisma, and pure musical joy to the season.
A Historic Return After Nearly Four Decades
At 79, Cher made her highly anticipated comeback as a musical guest on Saturday Night Live, marking her first performance on the show in 38 years. The episode, which closed out the final broadcast of 2025, was hosted by Wicked star Ariana Grande, making the night even more special for fans of pop culture and music alike.
Two Performances, One Magical Night
Cher captivated the audience with a vibrant performance of “DJ Play a Christmas Song”, followed by a high-energy rendition of Chuck Berry’s holiday classic “Run Rudolph Run.” Both tracks are featured on her 2023 holiday album, Christmas, which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Holiday Albums chart—yet another milestone in her legendary career.
Inside Cher’s Holiday Album ‘Christmas’
The 13-track project, Cher’s 27th studio album, blends festive classics with fresh, original material. The album also boasts an impressive lineup of collaborators, including Michael Bublé, Cyndi Lauper, Darlene Love, Tyga, and Stevie Wonder.
Speaking to Billboard in 2023, Cher described the album with refreshing honesty:
“They’re not ‘Christmas Christmas’ songs. They’re just great songs. I’m usually very critical of my own work, but I love these songs—and so does everyone who hears them.”
A Look Back at Cher’s ‘SNL’ Legacy
Cher last appeared as a musical guest on SNL on November 21, 1987. Over the years, the Moonstruck Oscar winner has also made memorable cameos, including an appearance during a 1992 episode hosted by Nicolas Cage and another earlier this year as part of the show’s 50th-anniversary celebration.
A Surprise, Emotional Sketch Moment
Beyond her musical performances, Cher delivered one of the night’s most touching moments alongside cast member Bowen Yang. In his final SNL sketch, Yang portrayed a Delta Sky Club employee reflecting on endings and change. The scene featured a stripped-down version of the Eagles’ “Please Come Home for Christmas,” with Ariana Grande joining in—before Cher made a surprise entrance that brought the sketch to an emotional peak.
Earlier that day, Yang confirmed on Instagram that the December 20 episode would be his last on SNL, writing that he was “grateful for every minute” of his time on the show and reflecting on personal growth, vulnerability, and human connection.
What’s Next for ‘SNL’ After the Holidays
Following its holiday break, Saturday Night Live is set to return in 2026 with a January 17 episode hosted by Stranger Things star Finn Wolfhard, with musical guest A$AP Rocky.
A Holiday Moment to Remember
With her dazzling performances and heartfelt surprise appearance, Cher Delivers Holiday Magic on ‘SNL’ With ‘DJ Play a Christmas Song’ and ‘Run Rudolph Run’, reminding audiences why she remains one of music’s most enduring and beloved icons. Her return wasn’t just nostalgic—it was vibrant, relevant, and unforgettable.
Watch Cher’s SNL performances below, and find all the ways to stream the full episode here.
