SNL Cast Shake-Up: Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker Among Those Leaving Before Season 51

Several big names are exiting Saturday Night Live ahead of Season 51. Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, and Michael Longfellow have all announced their departures. The new season premieres on October 4, 2025.

These exits mark a significant change for the long-running sketch show. According to Vulture and Deadline, these cast members will not return for the upcoming season.

Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker, and Others Say Goodbye

Heidi Gardner joined SNL in 2017. She started as a featured player in Season 43. Later, she was promoted and stayed for eight seasons. Her departure was confirmed on August 28.

Devon Walker also leaves the show. He joined SNL in 2022 for Season 48. After three seasons, he announced his exit via Instagram on August 26.

Michael Longfellow and Emil Wakim are also out. Longfellow joined in 2022 and stayed through Season 50. His departure was reported by Deadline. Wakim had the shortest run. He joined in Season 50 and leaves after one year.

SNL’s Season 51 Promises Change

Lorne Michaels, SNL’s creator, hinted at changes ahead. In an August 22 interview with Puck, he said the 50th anniversary season needed a stable cast. Now, as that season ends, more movement is allowed.

These cast exits suggest Michaels is making room for new faces. Fans should expect fresh talent this October.

SNL has a long history of evolving its lineup. New departures may bring new energy. Still, losing longtime cast like Gardner leaves a gap.

What This Means for SNL’s Future

With four exits, SNL faces a shift. Longtime viewers may miss familiar faces. But the changes may also bring new comedic voices.

For Gardner, this marks the end of a long era. She became a fan favorite over eight years. New talent must now step up and deliver.

SNL remains a cultural force. With Season 51, the show gets a new chance to redefine itself. Fans are watching closely.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is leaving the SNL cast in 2025?

Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker, Michael Longfellow, and Emil Wakim are leaving the cast before Season 51.

Q2: Why did Heidi Gardner leave SNL?

Heidi Gardner has not given a public reason. She spent eight seasons on the show.

Q3: When does SNL Season 51 start?

The new season of Saturday Night Live starts on October 4, 2025.

Q4: Who will replace the leaving SNL cast members?

New cast additions have not been officially announced yet by NBC or SNL.

Q5: What did Lorne Michaels say about cast changes?

He said the 50th season had to remain stable but hinted at shake-ups for Season 51.