SNL Cast Exodus: Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker Exit

Saturday Night Live is undergoing a significant cast change. Several key cast members are leaving the show. This news comes just weeks before the Season 51 premiere on October 4.

The departures mark a major shift for the long-running comedy institution. According to a Vulture report, veteran cast member Heidi Gardner is among those exiting.

Confirmed SNL Departures and Their Tenures

Heidi Gardner joined the show in 2017. She started as a featured player in Season 43. She was promoted to repertory status two years later.

Gardner spent eight seasons with the iconic show. Her departure is a major loss for the ensemble. She was known for numerous popular characters.

Other confirmed departures include Devon Walker. He announced his exit on Instagram on August 26. Walker was a featured player in Season 48.

He became a full-time cast member in his final season. Michael Longfellow is also leaving according to Deadline. He joined the same year as Walker.

Longfellow was promoted to repertory player for Season 50. Emil Wakim is departing after just one year. He was a featured player added in Season 50.

Lorne Michaels Plans a Creative Refresh

The show’s creator, Lorne Michaels, hinted at changes. He spoke to Puck about shaking things up for the new season. Michaels wanted stability for the 50th-anniversary celebrations.

He ensured veteran stars returned for the special event. This meant avoiding major disruptions last season. Now, the focus shifts to refreshing the cast.

This strategy allows new talent to emerge. It also gives departing members opportunities for new projects. The changes are expected to bring new energy to the show.

The upcoming season promises a new era for the legendary sketch show. This significant SNL cast shakeup aims to revitalize the program for its next chapter. Fans eagerly await the new cast dynamics this fall.

Info at your fingertips

Which SNL cast members are confirmed to be leaving?

Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker, Michael Longfellow, and Emil Wakim are all departing. Their exits were confirmed through reports and social media announcements in late August.

Why are so many cast members leaving SNL now?

Show creator Lorne Michaels indicated he wanted stability for the 50th season. Now, he is intentionally shaking up the cast to refresh the show creatively for its next chapter.

How long was Heidi Gardner on SNL?

Heidi Gardner spent eight seasons on the show. She first joined as a featured player in 2017 during Season 43 and was later promoted to a main cast member.

When does the new season of SNL start?

Saturday Night Live Season 51 is scheduled to premiere on October 4, 2025. The new season will feature a mix of returning cast and new faces.

Will there be new cast members added?

While not officially confirmed, it is highly likely. Major cast departures typically lead to new hires, and Lorne Michaels has hinted at a creative refresh for the upcoming season.