Saturday Night Live Announces Major Cast Overhaul Ahead Season 51 Premiere

As Saturday Night Live prepares for its 51st season premiere on October 4, 2025, the show is undergoing significant cast changes with the departure of several members including Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, and Michael Longfellow. Gardner, who had been with SNL since Season 43 and was its longest-tenured woman, left due to contract non-renewal amid what insiders describe as a push for fresh talent. Devon Walker, who recently exited after three seasons, described the show environment as both rewarding and at times toxic, expressing gratitude for his experience but acknowledging the show's challenging nature. Meanwhile, SNL continues to add new talent with five new comedians joining the cast, including Tommy Brennan and Veronika Slowikowska. Reflecting on the show's origins, Chevy Chase recalled how a chance encounter with producer Lorne Michaels led to the creation of the iconic program, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that launched the original cast. Despite the upheaval, Walker emphasized that leaving SNL is part of its design and he remains committed to creating new work beyond the show.