"Saturday Night Live" will begin its 34th season by airing early and often.

The late-night comedy series will return with new episodes on Sept. 13, a few weeks earlier than its normal late September/early October launch. In addition, "SNL" will broadcast four consecutive weeks of originals, and a total of seven live episodes, prior to the election.

Both moves are designed to take advantage of the upcoming presidential election and the opportunities for parody on "SNL," NBC said.

"SNL" will produce original episodes Sept. 13, Sept. 20, Sept. 27, Oct. 4, Oct. 18, Oct. 25 and Nov. 1. Overall, NBC is planning 22 original "SNL" episodes next season, up from the usual 20.

As previously announced, "SNL" will air three prime-time election specials, dubbed "SNL Weekend Update Thursday," on Oct. 9, 16 and 23. The half-hour shows will air at 9:30 p.m. each night.

NBC also will broadcast a 90-minute "SNL" election special Monday, Nov. 2, at 9:30 p.m.—hours before voting begins on Election Day. It will feature a mix of original and best-of content.

(Editor: Baumann)