Another Cast Exit Rocks SNL as Season 51 Approaches

Ego Nwodim, one of the most familiar faces on Saturday Night Live, has announced she is leaving the NBC sketch show after seven seasons.

Deadline reports that Nwodim made the decision even after the cast for Season 51 was thought to be finalized, ahead of the show’s return on October 4.

“The hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight. But after seven unforgettable seasons, I have decided to leave SNL. I am immensely grateful to Lorne for the opportunity, to my castmates, the writers, and the crew for their brilliance, support, and friendship. Week after week on that stage taught me more than I could have ever imagined, and I will carry those memories, and that laughter, with me always,” Nwodim said.

Since joining SNL in 2018 as the only new cast member of Season 44, Nwodim rose quickly to become one of the show’s senior female players.

She was promoted to repertory status in Season 46. Over the years, she became known for memorable sketches including her role as Miss Eggy, which drew an intense audience reaction earlier this year, as well as characters like Lisa from Temecula, Dionne Warwick, and Edith Puthie.

Outside of SNL, Nwodim has steadily expanded her career. She has appeared in shows like Peacock’s Poker Face and Mr. Throwback, and in Netflix’s film Little Brother, starring alongside John Cena, Eric André, and Michelle Monaghan. She previously told Deadline, “Dream come true. I want my other dreams to come true. I want to be in films and I want to do more TV as well.”

Nwodim’s departure follows several other cast exits, including Heidi Gardner, Emil Wakim, Michael Longfellow, and Devon Walker. Season 51 will now feature a 17-member ensemble, with newcomers Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Kam Patterson, Veronika Slowikowska, and Ben Marshall from Please Don’t Destroy joining returning players such as Michael Che, Mikey Day, Andrew Dismukes, Chloe Fineman, Marcello Hernandez, James Austin Johnson, Colin Jost, Sarah Sherman, Kenan Thompson, and Bowen Yang, along with featured players Ashley Padilla and Jane Wickline.

Reflecting on her time on the show, Nwodim described the experience as a privilege. She noted that participating in SNL’s 50th anniversary celebrations was “surreal” and a “special honor”, especially given the legendary cast members and high-profile guests involved.

With her growing work in television and film, Nwodim is expected to remain in demand. Her exit marks the end of an important chapter for SNL as the series enters Season 51 with a refreshed cast.

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