The stage is set for a big shake-up at Saturday Night Live. Get ready for some fresh faces and heartfelt goodbyes as the iconic sketch comedy show gears up for its 51st season. After a landmark 50th year filled with returning favorites, it seems showrunner Lorne Michaels is ready to introduce a new era.
Michaels had hinted at a cast refresh earlier this year. He told Puck on August 24 about the special vibe of the 50th season. He mentioned Dana Carvey, who played Joe Biden, talking to him at an after-party. Michaels wanted many past stars back, like Kate McKinnon, Kristen Wiig, and Maya Rudolph. This meant keeping the cast steady for the 50th run, especially with an election happening.
Now, with the nostalgia trip over, Michaels confirmed changes were coming soon. He did give us one solid piece of news early on: James Austin Johnson would be back.
The new season kicks off on NBC on Saturday, October 4.
Saying Goodbye
Some familiar faces are moving on from Studio 8H. It’s always tough to see beloved cast members leave, and some shared touching messages about their time on the show.
Devon Walker was among the first to announce his exit. He shared the news on Instagram on August 25, posting a backstage photo with a simple message that read, “We’re done with my baby ❤️.” He followed up with a longer note, reflecting on his three seasons. “Jobs in this industry are like little marriages for me,” Walker wrote. “Some last a long time if you’re lucky. Most are fleeting. They’re permanent until they aren’t.” He added that he understood the deal when he signed up. “The show and I did three years together. Sometimes it was really great. Sometimes it was toxic as hell. But we made the most of what it was, even with all the craziness. We made a messed-up family.”
Emil Wakim also confirmed his departure on Instagram on August 27. This came as a surprise since he was only there for one season. “It was a tough call to get,” Wakim shared. “But I’m super grateful for my time there.” He even recalled the moment he got the news: “I was at Six Flags for my friend’s 36th birthday. I took a very emotional ride through Bugs Bunny park. I looked at Daffy Duck lake thinking about life.” Wakim added, “Every time I walked into the building, I thought about how amazing it was to work there. It was the most terrifying, exciting, and rewarding experience of my life.” He expressed gratitude for Lorne Michaels “taking a chance on me and changing my life.” Wakim looks forward to “making more art without compromising.”
Michael Longfellow is also leaving after three seasons. News of his departure came from Deadline on August 28. Longfellow has not yet spoken about his exit.
Heidi Gardner, a veteran of eight years on the show, will also not be back for Season 51. This news broke on August 28. Gardner has not yet publicly commented on her departure.
One Fan Favorite Stays Put
James Austin Johnson, known for his spot-on impression of Donald Trump, will definitely be back. Michaels confirmed this to Puck on August 24. It sounds like we can expect more of his unique take on the former president this season. Johnson himself has remained quiet about his return, letting the news speak for itself.
New Blood for Season 51
NBC officially announced five new cast members on September 2. These talented comedians are ready to bring fresh energy and laughs to the show. Let’s meet them:
Tommy Brennan
Tommy Brennan, a comedian from Minnesota, is one of the new faces. He previously appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Now, he’s set to make his debut on the iconic SNL stage.
Jeremy Culhane
Jeremy Culhane hails from California. He’s well-known for his funny viral videos on TikTok. Now, he’s bringing his digital comedy skills to live television as a fresh cast member.
Ben Marshall
Ben Marshall isn’t entirely new to the SNL family. He joined the writing staff back in 2021. This season, he’s stepping out from behind the scenes. Marshall will make his on-camera debut as a cast member.
Kam Patterson
Kam Patterson is stepping into the SNL spotlight for his first season. Before joining the show, he was busy with his stand-up comedy career. He also starred in Netflix’s 72 Hours.
Veronika Slowikowska
Veronika Slowikowska is the fifth new comedian joining the NBC series this fall. She’s already built a following with her viral sketches on social media. Now, she’s ready to bring that humor to a wider audience.
