Old School. Biblically Independent.
By Dustin Rowles | TV | September 12, 2025
After seven seasons, one of SNL’s best cast members has decided to leave. Ego Nwodim chose to exit SNL after Lorne Michaels announced that the cast for season 51 had been set.
“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,” she said, according to Deadline.
It’s hard to say why, exactly, that Nwodim decided to exit only weeks ahead of the season 51 premiere. If I had to guess, however, it’s that — after Heidi Gardner was reportedly pushed out after eight seasons — Nwodim decided that she wanted to go out on her own terms. That she wanted to make the decision, instead of having the decision made for her.
It’s also possible that she just didn’t want to spend another year competing for screentime with five new cast members in what is already one of the largest casts in SNL history. And why should she? Nwodim is exceptionally talented, will be in huge demand, and leaves SNL after what was arguably her best year on the variety show.
One thing is for damn sure: Her presence on the series will be sorely missed.
