The Official Unconfirmed ‘SNL’ Departure Watch List
Lorne Michaels promised major cast shake-ups to Saturday Night Live in an interview last week, and we’re right on time to start getting that information.
The first to confirm his departure was Devon Walker, who had been on the show for three years. Walker said his time on the show was both “toxic as hell” and “really cool” and that the news isn’t something he needs condolences for. Two writers also announced their departures: Bowen Yang’s creative partner Celeste Yim posted an official Instagram post announcing their leave, while powerhouse writer Rosebud Baker made the announcement during a stand-up set.
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Still, these might not be the only big changes coming for Season 51. Michael Che won’t stop joking about his departure, while Colin Jost just announced a new hosting gig that will premiere a week before SNL returns. There’s no guarantee that the longtime hosts of Weekend Update are out, but Studio 8H is also reportedly hosting screen tests for new hosts (we think Michael Longfellow might have a shot.)
We also can deduce that Yang might be leaving with the departure of Yim. His career has blown up, and he’s going to be double-booked while promoting Wicked Part 2 and continuing to grow Las Culturistas. Plus, he was crying a lot at the Season 50 finale. Could be nothing! Could be tears for the last farewell!
Chloe Fineman commented “I will miss playing your pregnant wife,” on Walker’s departure post. If she’s leaving, she’s keeping her cards close to the vest. Heidi Gardner has been in the cast for a long time but stepped back a bit from the limelight during Season 50. She’s also found success outside of the show, with a recurring role on Shrinking and starring in every Homes.com advertisement on the planet. Worth noting as well: When you google her name, the first prompt is “Heidi Gardner leaving SNL.”
The least likely exit? Keenan Thompson. He’s been on the show forever, and there’s no indication he ever plans on leaving. At this point, his name is as associated with the show as Lorne Michaels.
Only time will tell who’s really going to make it. But the way that the departure announcements have been going so far, maybe exiting SNL will be a net good for those saying goodbye. After all, it doesn’t seem like you get much sleep on that job.
