“Saturday Night Live” is experiencing a new round of cast changes before its new season.
On Thursday, CNN confirmed Heidi Gardner and featured player Michael Longfellow will not be returning, following the third and fourth announcements this week.
Gardner, who joined the iconic NBC sketch show in 2017, leaves after eight seasons. Over her tenure, she became a fan favorite with a wide array of eccentric and neurotic characters, including “Angel, every boxer’s girlfriend from every boxing movie ever.” Known for her versatility and commitment, Gardner brought memorable energy to the ensemble and quickly became one of the show’s most recognizable faces.
Longfellow, however, exits after three years on the program. Since joining the show in 2022, he established himself with a dry wit and solid work in sketches and Weekend Update segments. Though his tenure on “SNL” was shorter, he developed a good base with fans who enjoyed his subtle delivery.
The double departure comes as part of news earlier this week that Devon Walker and Emil Wakim are also exiting the show. Walker, who was on the show for three seasons, announced his exit in an Instagram message, labeling the work culture at times as “toxic as hell” but also expressing appreciation for the experience. Wakim, who arrived just last season, followed up with his own announcement two days later, saying the news was “a gut punch” but positively looking at his short stint among the cast.
Cast turnover is an old tradition at “SNL,” with announcements usually being made in late August before the fall season premiere. Gardner, Longfellow, Walker, and Wakim’s exits point to a time of change as the program gears up for its milestone 51st season.
Earlier this month, executive producer and series creator Lorne Michaels teased major changes to the roster, telling Puck that fans could anticipate notable cast maneuvers. New faces are set to be announced shortly, following the show’s tradition of welcoming up-and-coming comedic talent to the national stage.
NBC has officially announced that “Saturday Night Live” Season 51 will debut on Oct. 4, 2025. With four recent exits in one week and fresh additions to come, everyone is watching Michaels and the “SNL” staff to determine how the next chapter of the iconic late-night sketch series will unfold.
Jamie Wells has a knack for getting the inside scoop on Hollywood’s biggest stars and up-and-coming talent. With a sharp eye for industry trends and an ear for viral moments, Jamie covers everything from red-carpet events to behind-the-scenes drama in movies, TV, and celebrity culture.
