We’re buzzing about the lineup for GLEE next season, with Kate Hudson, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Britney Spears set to charm McKinley High again. Until then, this recap revisits favorite guest stars who already graced the halls of McKinley, bringing energy, humor, and a splash of celebrity magic that fans still talk about.
10. Olivia Newton-John as herself. Olivia Newton-John appears as herself, a rare treat that ties the long-running musical comedy to its golden era. Known for the sunny charm of Sandy in Grease, she steps into Glee with a wry, self-aware attitude that catches viewers off guard in the best possible way. The contrast between her well-known warmth and the character’s sharper ambitions provides a fresh dynamic on the screen, and in the musical moments she shares with the cast the energy shifts in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Her presence lands with sincerity and a hint of playful mischief that lingers long after the episode ends.
9. Britney Spears as herself. Britney Spears returns as herself, and the moment lands with the force of a pop history lesson that fans crave. Even as tabloids swirl around her personal life, her music remains undeniable, and the episode honoring her catalog becomes a celebration of her enduring influence. Dressed in outfits that nod to different eras of her career, she embodies a leadership energy for the McKinley glee club that sparks confidence and daring in the students. The energy is contagious, and the way the ensemble leans into her presence makes the number sequences feel monumental rather than mere cameos.
8. Neil Patrick Harris as Bryan Ryan. Neil Patrick Harris brings a magnetic mix of charm and menace as Bryan Ryan, the show’s polished rival. The character’s clever barbs and strategic moves keep the plot unpredictable, and his interactions with the main cast crackle with tension and wit. Even as the antagonist, there are moments that reveal a sly vulnerability and humor that endear him to the audience. The guest appearance sticks in memory for the swagger, the vocal moments, and the way it reframes the heroes’ challenges, infusing a theatrical pulse into the proceedings.
7. Eve as Grace Hitchens. Eve steps into the arc with the same commanding presence that fans remember from the stage. Grace Hitchens becomes a mentor figure for the troubled teens at Jane Addams, offering guidance that is imperfect but ultimately well-meaning. Her methods may be shady at times, but the deeper motive to lift others shines through, adding moral complexity to the narrative. The confidence she brings elevates the scenes and leaves a memorable mark that resonates beyond the episode’s runtime.
6. Patti LuPone as herself. Patti LuPone arrives as herself for a brief yet sparkling cameo that resonates with Broadway lovers. Even with limited screen time, her energy fills the room, and her presence anchors a moment of meta commentary about theatre and fame. The interaction with the younger cast highlights the difference between stage legend status and television acting, while still acknowledging the power of a big voice and fearless stage presence. The cameo becomes a standout moment for fans who crave authenticity and a touch of backstage magic.
5. Ricky Martin as David Martinez. Ricky Martin appears as David Martinez for one episode, but the impact feels larger than its time on screen. The character brings direct, passionate energy to the classroom, infusing the episodes with rhythm and cultural pride. His teaching moments, his interactions with Mr. Schuester, and the vibrant musical numbers leave a memorable imprint. The storyline uses his presence to explore language, culture, and the idea that music can cross borders and unify people, even amid competition and high emotion.
4. Jonathan Groff as Jesse St. James. Jonathan Groff delivers a sly, stylish turn as Jesse St. James. The character presses every button audiences love: ambition, charisma, and a private plan that invites speculation. The chemistry with key players creates some of the show’s most intriguing rivalries, and Groff’s vocal performances add a glossy, Broadway-meets-television texture that fans remember. Jesse remains a fashionable foil and a reminder that charisma on screen can drive a plot with flair through a twisty arc.
3. Idina Menzel as Shelby Corcoran. Idina Menzel steps in as Shelby Corcoran, Rachel’s birth mother, and her scenes radiate with stage-born authority. Fans of Wicked recognize the unmistakable powerhouse voice, which translates into commanding performances that lift every number. The dynamic between Shelby and the core cast brings emotional depth, while offering a look into mentorship, competition, and parental love that fuels the drama. Menzel’s presence anchors the emotional backbone of the storyline in a way that lingers long after the final note.
2. Kristin Chenoweth as April Rhodes. Kristin Chenoweth brings her signature brightness and a chorus of color to April Rhodes. Her voice has a playful lift that makes even the most outlandish lines feel irresistible. The character starts as a larger-than-life mentor with a playful, sometimes vulnerable vibe, yet her warmth and fearless honesty quickly win over the audience. Chenoweth’s appearance is a celebration of friendship, risk-taking, and the joy of letting music lead the way to surprising places.
1. Gwyneth Paltrow as Holly Holliday. Gwyneth Paltrow embodies Holly Holliday, a bold risk-taker who contrasts sharply with Will Schuester’s approach. The performance exudes confidence, sparkle, and a rock star attitude that elevates the show’s energy. Holly’s fearless teaching style and witty flair inject humor and sass, turning familiar numbers into something unexpected and unforgettable. The collaboration with the cast creates a vibrant center for the season, and Paltrow’s timing and charisma make Holly one of the most talked-about guest appearances in the series.