Walton Goggins, a celebrated actor known for his roles in The White Lotus and The Righteous Gemstones, took center stage as the host of Saturday Night Live (SNL) on May 10, 2025. The episode, which aired during SNL’s 50th season, was one of the last of the milestone year and featured a highly anticipated performance by musical guest Arcade Fire. Walton Goggins, who’s enjoyed a career resurgence, became the star of the evening as he tackled the role of host with his signature humor and Southern charm.
Walton Goggins' monologue was a hilarious blend of self-deprecating humor and a celebration of his unlikely rise to sex symbol status at the age of 53. In it, he acknowledged his transformation from a "character actor" to a leading man. Walton Goggins also highlighted his Alabama roots and teased the audience about his experiences growing up in the South. The episode's sketches ranged from political humor to absurdist comedy, with Walton Goggins proving his comedic chops in each one. One standout moment was the cold open, which featured James Austin Johnson’s spot-on impression of Donald Trump and a Mother's Day tribute, followed by a surprise return of Cecily Strong as Jeanine Pirro.
Walton Goggins' turn on SNL was just one part of his ever-expanding career. Known for his compelling roles in films such as Django Unchained, The Hateful Eight, and Lincoln, Walton Goggins has also gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of the charismatic but troubled character in The White Lotus. The show has been a major success, helping elevate Walton Goggins' already impressive career and cementing his place in the spotlight.
Not only is Walton Goggins a prominent figure in Hollywood, but his financial success has been just as impressive. According to reports, Walton Goggins' net worth is estimated to be around $12 million. This figure places him among the higher earners from The White Lotus cast, surpassing fellow actors Parker Posey, whose net worth is $5 million, and Jason Isaacs, valued at $6 million. Walton Goggins' earnings from the show itself amounted to around $320,000, averaging $40,000 per episode. This income further solidifies his financial position in the industry, making him a key figure in the world of both film and television.
The episode of SNL also had its share of drama surrounding Walton Goggins and his The White Lotus co-star, Aimee Lou Wood. A recent controversy regarding their off-screen dynamic was humorously addressed during the show, providing a bit of levity amidst the buzz surrounding their relationship. Walton Goggins didn’t shy away from discussing the rumors, leaning into the comedic nature of the show to diffuse the tension.
For fans wanting to relive Walton Goggins' SNL debut, the episode is available for streaming on Peacock, and clips from the show can also be found on YouTube and Instagram. Walton Goggins' appearance on SNL has added another memorable moment to a career filled with unique roles, sharp performances, and a growing presence in Hollywood.
Overall, Walton Goggins’ hosting stint on SNL, coupled with his impressive financial success and burgeoning career, marks a new chapter in the actor's remarkable journey. Walton Goggins' ability to seamlessly blend humor with sincerity, alongside his strong career trajectory, continues to captivate audiences, making him one of the most versatile and beloved stars of his generation.
