Ego Nwodim opens up about her departure from Saturday Night Live, stating that the show was always intended to be a stepping stone for her career. The 37-year-old comedian shared these insights during the “Cultural Impact: How Story, Style, and Strategy Shape What’s Next” panel at the 2025 Fast Company Innovation Festival in New York City. Reflecting on her seven seasons on the iconic sketch comedy series, Nwodim expressed her excitement about focusing on directing and writing in different capacities. She mentioned the plethora of ideas she is eager to explore now that she has more time on her hands.
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During the panel discussion, Nwodim reminisced about some of her favourite behind-the-scenes moments on SNL, including a humorous incident involving a note that revealed the cancellation of a skit she was set to perform with Leslie Jones. The revelation of her departure from SNL came on September 12, when Nwodim took to Instagram to share the news with her followers. She first joined the show as a featured player in its 44th season in 2018 and later transitioned to a full-time cast member in 2020.
In her heartfelt Instagram post, Nwodim expressed her gratitude to SNL creator Lorne Michaels, her fellow castmates, writers, and crew for their support and friendship throughout her time on the show. She described her experience on the SNL stage as a profound learning opportunity that she will always cherish. Nwodim’s departure aligns with a series of exits by other cast members, including Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, Michael Longfellow, and Heidi Gardner. The upcoming 51st season of SNL, set to premiere in October, will feature significant cast changes as Michaels aims to bring fresh energy to the long-running show.
Michaels hinted at the shakeups in the cast for the new season, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and momentum as SNL approaches its 50th season milestone. The departure of Nwodim and other cast members signals a new chapter for the show, with anticipation building for the upcoming season premiere on October 4. With the comedic landscape evolving, SNL continues to be a platform for emerging talent and established performers alike, showcasing a diverse range of characters and sketches that resonate with audiences.
As Nwodim embarks on the next phase of her career, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see where her creative journey takes her. Her dedication to comedy and storytelling has been a hallmark of her time on SNL, and her departure marks a bittersweet moment for fans who have enjoyed her performances over the years. With new opportunities on the horizon, Nwodim’s exit from SNL signals a new beginning filled with promise and potential in the ever-changing landscape of entertainment.