Image Credit: NBC
The 2025 roster update for Saturday Night Live created quite the buzz online as fresh faces were added to the program. One of the most surprising departures was from Ego Nwodim, who captivated viewers for seven seasons on the NBC sketch comedy show. So, what led to Ego’s exit from SNL?
Here, Hollywood Life details everything we’ve learned regarding Ego’s leaving SNL, in addition to details about the season 51 lineup.
Who Is On the SNL Season 51 Roster?
The following individuals currently make up the SNL cast:
Principal Performers:
- Michael Che
- Mikey Day
- Andrew Dismukes
- Chloe Fineman
- Marcello Hernández
- James Austin Johnson
- Colin Jost
- Sarah Sherman
- Kenan Thompson
- Bowen Yang
Supporting Performers:
- Tommy Brennan
- Jeremy Culhane
- Ben Marshall
- Ashley Padilla
- Kam Patterson
- Veronika Slowikowska
- Jane Wickline
What Prompted Multiple SNL Performers to Depart Following Season 50?
Each cast member had unique motivations for their leaving. While some departed of their own volition, others hinted that they had been dismissed. Judging by Emil’s remarks, it appeared that he was released from the show.
“I won’t be back on SNL next year,” Emil shared on Instagram back in August 2025. “The call came as a total shock, but I’m very appreciative of the time I spent there.”
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Why Did Ego Nwodim Exit SNL After Seven Years?
Ego explained that leaving SNL was because it served as a “springboard” for her future, and she wanted to progress to other ventures.
“There’s a lot I aspire to accomplish, and SNL was always intended as a springboard,” the actress declared at the September 2025 Fast Company Innovation Festival held in New York City, according to Today.
Ego’s departure from the show happened mere weeks before the launch of its season 51. In a message shared on Instagram, the former performer stated, “The most challenging aspect of an amazing party is acknowledging when it’s time to say farewell. However, after seven incredible seasons, I’ve decided to leave SNL. I am eternally grateful to [creator] Lorne [Michaels] for granting me the opportunity, and to my colleagues, the writers, and the crew for their genius, backing, and friendship. Being on that stage week after week taught me lessons beyond my wildest dreams, and I’ll forever cherish those moments (and that laughter).”
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What’s Next for Ego Nwodim After SNL?
Ego is eager to begin the next phase of her career, mentioning that she might explore directing and writing “in a new way.”
“I have so many concepts that I require time to develop, and I anticipate diving into that,” she stated in September 2025, as reported by Today. “So, directing, more writing in a new medium. I’m incredibly enthusiastic. It’s an exhilarating prospect.”
Sourse: hollywoodlife.com