'SNL' Cast Members Bowen Yang, Marcello Hernandez, Chloe Fineman, and Others Speak Out Following Cast Departures
In a surprising turn of events, several cast members have announced their departures from Saturday Night Live (SNL), marking one of the most significant cast shake-ups since 2022. Emil Wakim, Devon Walker, Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, and Marcello Hernández will be leaving the iconic comedy sketch show after their respective tenures.
Emil Wakim, who joined SNL for its 50th season, shared the news of his departure on his social media, stating, "Yellow room forever, u can play as many bones songs as u want." In a separate post, he clarified that his decision to leave was not his own. Bowen Yang, a fellow cast member, referenced a claim made by Michael Longfellow during a Weekend Update segment in his response.
Heidi Gardner, who was a cast member for eight seasons, has yet to comment on her departure on social media. Molly Shannon, another long-time cast member, expressed her well-wishes to Devon Walker, commenting, "So nice meeting you Devon! Wishing you so much continued success." Chloe Fineman also showed her support, stating, "I'll miss being your pregnant wife all the time!!!" on Devon Walker's Instagram post.
Punkie Johnson responded to Emil Wakim's post, expressing surprise and admiration. She wrote, "Omg at first glance I thought this was a birthday post...this is really truly surprising...I'm glad you are focusing on the good and are proud of yourself and the work you put in not many people can say they were on SNL and for the 50th in legendary... You a legend baby... Outside ain't bad. Welcome back."
Marcello Hernández and Michael Longfellow, in an Instagram exchange, discussed a PS5, hinting at their post-SNL plans. Michael Longfellow officially announced his departure from SNL on Instagram, with Marcello Hernández and Devon Walker commenting on the post.
Lorne Michaels, the creator of SNL, and Kenan Thompson, the longest-serving cast member, previously teased that cast changes were likely. It remains unclear if more people are expected to leave the show ahead of the season 51 premiere on Oct. 4.
This departure of key cast members follows a similar trend, with eight people leaving SNL ahead of season 48 in 2022. As the show prepares for a new season, fans eagerly await the announcement of new cast members and the return of their favourites.
