Heidi Gardner Leaves “SNL ”After 8 Seasons

Heidi Gardner Bids Farewell to ‘SNL’ After 8 Seasons

Heidi Gardner, known for her comedic talents on “Saturday Night Live,” has announced her departure from the iconic sketch comedy show after a successful run spanning eight seasons. Gardner first joined the show in 2017 as a featured member before later being promoted to a repertory player in 2019.

Gardner’s decision to leave ‘SNL’ was confirmed on Thursday, Aug. 28 by PEOPLE. Her journey on the show began in 2017, and over the years, she became a beloved part of the ensemble cast, contributing to the show’s success with her unique characters and comedic timing.

During a candid interview with Craig Ferguson in February 2025, Gardner expressed her love for ‘SNL’ but acknowledged feeling some fatigue with generating new sketch ideas. Despite this challenge, she praised the talented writers on the show for their support and creativity in crafting sketches that showcased her comedic skills.

As she bids farewell to ‘SNL,’ Gardner shared her aspirations for the future, expressing a desire to venture into co-writing and co-starring in her own show where she can immerse herself in a character and explore new comedic avenues beyond the confines of the sketch comedy format.

Before her stint on ‘SNL,’ Gardner’s career trajectory took a unique turn as she transitioned from being a hairstylist for nine years to pursuing comedy classes in 2010. Since then, she has honed her craft and showcased her talent in various films and television shows, including ‘Life of the Party,’ ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,’ and ‘Girls5eva,’ among others.

Throughout her time on ‘SNL,’ Gardner left a lasting impression with her memorable characters and comedic performances. From portraying celebrities like Kim Kardashian to creating original characters such as Bailey Gismert and Baskin Johns, Gardner’s versatility and comedic range were evident in every skit she graced.

As fans bid adieu to Heidi Gardner on ‘SNL,’ her departure marks the end of an era for the show. Gardner’s contributions to the comedy landscape have been significant, and her talent and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers and colleagues alike.

While Gardner’s departure from ‘SNL’ may signal a new chapter in her career, her comedic legacy on the show will be remembered fondly by fans and industry peers alike. As she sets her sights on new comedic ventures, audiences can look forward to witnessing the next chapter in Heidi Gardner’s comedic journey beyond the hallowed halls of ‘Saturday Night Live’.