‘SNL’ Faces Another Major Cast Shakeup as Ego Nwodim Departs

A fan favorite on “Saturday Night Live” since 2018, Ego Nwodim, has said she won’t return for the 51st season, surprising viewers. Nwodim, who joined in season 44, ended her seven-season career on Instagram with gratitude and fond memories. She deeply thanked Lorne Michaels, her actors, writers, and the production team. She discussed how much she learnt and enjoyed working on the famed sketch comedy show.

Nwodim leaves “SNL” like many others. Earlier releases confirmed Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, Michael Longfellow, and Heidi Gardner will leave the program. Gardner’s reasons for leaving the show are unknown, but Walker said it was “toxic” yet had a strong cast. Both Longfellow and Wakim said they were sad to depart but grateful for their time on the show.

Cecily Strong, a longtime “SNL” cast member, praised Nwodim’s work. This answer demonstrated the show’s community’s esteem and solid professional ties, even though many people are leaving, indicating change.

Former cast members like Walker have admitted it’s hard to work for “SNL.” They stated cast members worried about contract renewals over the summer. This candid look at the situation adds complexity to the story of the recent program exits by demonstrating the stress behind the scenes.

Fans will notice these familiar faces missing as “SNL” continues, which is a major change for the ensemble. The departures demonstrate how the program is evolving and how actors choose their professions.

Sources
Instagram statements from Ego Nwodim, Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, Michael Longfellow, and Cecily Strong
Variety interviews with former “SNL” cast members