Another shakeup has hit the cast of “Saturday Night Live.” Emil Wakim, who joined the iconic NBC sketch series in 2024 for its 50th anniversary season, revealed on Instagram August 27 that he will not return for season 51.
The 27-year-old comedian called the news “a gut punch,” sharing that he learned of his exit in a phone call. Alongside his message, Wakim posted a photo carousel filled with behind-the-scenes moments from Studio 8H, reflecting on what he described as an unforgettable year on the show.
Wakim Reflects on His ‘SNL’ Experience
Best known for his “Weekend Update” appearances alongside Colin Jost and Michael Che, Wakim also stood out in a season 50 skit as “guy who looks like Luigi” Mangione. Despite the abrupt end, he credited Lorne Michaels for giving him the chance.
“Thank you to Lorne for taking a chance on me and changing my life,” Wakim shared. “It was the most terrifying, thrilling, and rewarding experience of my life, and I will miss it dearly and all the brilliant people that work there that made it feel like a home.”
Devon Walker Also Confirms Exit
Wakim’s announcement came just two days after fellow cast member Devon Walker revealed he was leaving after three seasons.
The 34-year-old comedian, known for impressions of Michael Strahan and New York City Mayor Eric Adams, posted on Instagram, “Me and the show did three years together, and sometimes it was really cool. Sometimes it was toxic as hell. But we made the most of what it was, even amidst all of the dysfunction.”
Walker added that he’s planning to travel and hopes to pursue acting. “I’m bout to go to Japan,” he wrote. “When I get back, I’m tryna be in a prestige drama. Ideally something with Julianne Moore.”
Writers’ Room Shakeups Continue
It’s not only the cast experiencing turnover. Celeste Yim, the first publicly trans writer on “Saturday Night Live,” confirmed her departure this week after five years. Writer Rosebud Baker is also leaving after three seasons. Michaels has already signaled that more changes are expected as season 51 takes shape, with the new lineup set to be announced before the show returns in early October.
