Dakota Johnson returned to Studio 8H on Saturday as host of "Saturday Night Live," and she brought a surprise. Taylor Swift made a cameo appearance during the episode, Boston.com and The Guardian reported. The Baltimore hardcore band Turnstile made its "SNL" debut as musical guest.

Sketches included "Mean Scary Girlfriend," "Guns for Women" and "Hospital Gossip," according to NBC, which posted the sketches online. Johnson, known for "Fifty Shades of Grey" and "Madame Web," has hosted before and leaned into her dry, deadpan style.

Turnstile played "Birds" and a medley of "I Care" and "Dull," Billboard reported. The band has grown from the hardcore punk scene into a crossover act, and its 2025 album "Never Enough" drew wide praise.

Critics were split. The Guardian called it a weak episode overall, saying the writing did not match the star power. Others enjoyed Johnson's commitment to odd characters and the buzz of the Swift cameo.

Swift's appearance added to a busy stretch for the singer. Her album "The Life of a Showgirl" just returned to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 thanks to a new expanded edition.

Some background: "SNL" began in 1975 and is in its 52nd season. It is known for launching comedy careers and for surprise guests, especially in the fall when the show aims to build momentum. Cameos by big stars often go viral and draw viewers who do not usually watch live.

"SNL" airs Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC and streams live and the next day on Peacock. Sketches are posted on YouTube and NBC.com.

What we know: Johnson hosted, Swift made a cameo, and Turnstile debuted.
What we don't: Who hosts next and whether the season's ratings will rise.