'SNL' Actors Bowen Yang, Marcello Hernandez, Chloe Fineman, among others, Share Their Thoughts on Cast Departures
In a surprising turn of events, several cast members have announced their departures from Saturday Night Live (SNL), with eight actors leaving the show ahead of season 48. This marks the most significant cast departure since 2022.
Emil Wakim, who joined the show last season, has shared that his exit wasn't his choice. In a recent post on social media, Wakim expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and the memories created during his time on the show. Punkie Johnson, who left SNL last year, responded to Wakim's post, wishing him well in his future endeavours.
Devon Walker, who has been a part of the show for three seasons, has also announced his departure. However, unlike Wakim, Walker has yet to comment on his departure on social media. His co-star, Chloe Fineman, did respond to his post about leaving the show.
Heidi Gardner, who was a castmember for eight seasons, has also left the show. Despite her departure, Gardner has yet to comment on her departure on social media. Molly Shannon, who was a castmember from 1995 to 2001 and returned to host in 2007 and 2023, commented on Gardner's post, expressing her support.
Michael Longfellow, another departing cast member, had a conversation with Marcello Hernández about their departures on Instagram. Hernández mentioned the PlayStation 5 in their conversation, although it's unclear why. Longfellow responded to a claim he made during one of his Weekend Update segments in his conversation with Hernández.
Lorne Michaels, the executive producer of SNL, and castmember Kenan Thompson previously teased that cast changes were likely. It's unclear if more people are expected to leave ahead of the season 51 premiere on Oct. 4.
As the show prepares for a new season, fans are eager to see who will join the cast and what new skits and comedy they will bring to the table. Stay tuned for more updates on the cast changes and the upcoming season of SNL.
