Ego Nwodim Exits ‘Saturday Night Live’ After Seven Seasons as Cast Shakeup Hits Season 51

Ego Nwodim has confirmed she is leaving Saturday Night Live. She announced her exit on September 12, 2025. The comedian departs after seven seasons on NBC’s iconic late-night sketch show.

Her departure is part of a larger cast shakeup. Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim are also leaving. Season 51 will now move forward with 17 cast members.

Ego Nwodim’s Decision to Leave SNL

Nwodim shared a heartfelt message on social media. She wrote that the “hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight.” After seven years on SNL, she said it was the right time to step away.

She thanked Lorne Michaels, her castmates, writers, and crew. She called the experience “unforgettable” and said she will carry the memories with her. According to outlets like Reuters, her statement made clear that it was her choice to depart.

Nwodim first joined SNL in 2018. Her standout characters included Lisa from Temecula, famous for demanding well-done steak, and Miss Eggy, a chaotic stand-up comic. She quickly became a fan favorite for her unique energy and bold characters.

Who Else Is Leaving SNL Season 51?

Ego Nwodim is not the only star stepping away. Heidi Gardner, a staple since 2017, is also gone. Reports suggest her exit may not have been her decision. Dana Carvey recently claimed Gardner was let go.

Michael Longfellow, who joined in 2022, confirmed his exit after three seasons. Emil Wakim, the first Lebanese-American cast member, was cut after only one year. Devon Walker also announced his departure after three seasons, saying it was simply time to move on.

With these changes, the female lineup now includes only five performers: Chloe Fineman, Sarah Sherman, Ashley Padilla, Jane Wickline, and newcomer Veronika Slowikowska.

The Future of SNL Season 51

Despite the exits, SNL is not slowing down. Five new comedians are joining the cast. They include Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall, Kam Patterson, and Veronika Slowikowska.

Returning stars include Michael Che, Colin Jost, Bowen Yang, Kenan Thompson, Mikey Day, and others. Together, they will form a cast of 17.

Season 51 premieres live on October 4, 2025. NBC will air the show coast-to-coast, with episodes also streaming on Peacock the next day. Lorne Michaels says he feels “pressure to reinvent” the show as it enters its sixth decade.

Ego Nwodim leaves Saturday Night Live with a legacy of sharp characters and memorable sketches. Her exit marks the end of an era, but also the start of a fresh chapter for the show.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Ego Nwodim leave SNL?

She said it was her choice to leave after seven seasons. She thanked Lorne Michaels, castmates, and fans for their support.

Q2: Who else is leaving Saturday Night Live?

Along with Nwodim, Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim are leaving before Season 51.

Q3: Who are the new SNL cast members in Season 51?

Newcomers include Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall, Kam Patterson, and Veronika Slowikowska.

Q4: When does SNL Season 51 start?

The new season premieres live on October 4, 2025, on NBC. Episodes will also stream on Peacock the next day.

Q5: How long was Ego Nwodim on SNL?

She joined the cast in 2018 and appeared for seven seasons before leaving in 2025.