SNL Loses Multiple Longtime Cast Members Ahead Season 51

Saturday Night Live is undergoing significant cast changes ahead of its 51st season, with longtime cast member Heidi Gardner departing after eight seasons. Gardner, known for her recurring characters and viral moments such as breaking character during a "Beavis and Butt-Head" sketch, was the longest-tenured female cast member and a central figure on the show. Her exit follows the departures of Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, and Michael Longfellow, who have all announced they will not return, with some citing personal reasons and others suggesting firings. The shakeup extends beyond cast members to writers, including the exit of Celeste Yim, the show's first out trans writer. Executive producer Lorne Michaels has acknowledged the need to reinvent the show after its 50th season, signaling a major restructuring. Despite the departures, cast members have expressed gratitude for their time on SNL, though some have described challenges within the show’s environment.