In surprising news, seven-season Saturday Night Live cast member Ego Nwodim announced Friday morning that she will be leaving the show, ahead of its upcoming 51st season. Her departure was first reported by Deadline’s Peter White.
Nwodim confirmed her departure in an Instagram post, writing, “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. Now invite me to your weddings please!”
Nwodim joined SNL in 2018 as a featured player and was promoted to the main cast ahead of Season 46. Over the years, she became a standout performer, known for sketches like her recurring “Lisa from Temecula” character and for her sharp comedic timing on “Weekend Update” and in live sketches.
Nwodim apparently decided not to return despite initially being expected back, choosing instead to pursue new creative opportunities. At an Emmys FYC event in June, she indicated that she’d begun thinking about life after SNL. “I want to create something that feels like it’s mine,” she explained. “I want to showcase some of my other talents, now that I’ve done so much on the show.”
News of her departure comes on the heels of word that four other SNL castmembers would also not be returning this this season: Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim. Early this month the show announced the addition of five new featured players.
Nwodim’s announcement has already sparked an outpouring of appreciation from fans and colleagues online, many praising her versatility and warmth, and calling her one of the show’s most consistent and inventive performers.
SNL returns for its 51st season October 4th.
Is there still room to hire a black female performer?
If we’re being honest, Nwodim had little impact on SNL and was somehow there for 7 seasons.
The other cast members who were on SNL for 7 seasons are:
Wiig, Shannon, Samberg, Myers, Morgan, Ferrell, Dratch, Carvey, and Bayer
Each of those cast members had many memorable sketches and characters.
Nwodim had two. It’s very easy to imagine the last 7 seasons without her. She was fine on SNL but completely forgettable and had virtually no impact on the show.
In other words, she was fired.