Michael Che, Colin Jost possibly exiting SNL amid Weekend Update shakeup rumors

Speculation grows over Michael Che and Colin Jost’s future on SNL as fans await season 50 finale announcements.

As Saturday Night Live prepares for its milestone 50th season finale, speculation is growing over which cast members may be departing. While no official announcements have been made, fans are closely watching veteran performers Mikey Day, Heidi Gardner, and especially longtime Weekend Update co-anchors Michael Che and Colin Jost.

Historically, major cast departures are confirmed during the season finale, meaning answers may arrive during the live broadcast on May 17, 2025. The show often undergoes subtle behind-the-scenes staff changes between seasons, but this year’s attention is firmly on its most established personalities.

Gardner has been part of the cast since 2017, and Day, who began as a writer in 2013, joined the cast in 2016. However, most speculation centers around Che and Jost, who have become fixtures behind the Weekend Update desk.

Che joined the writing staff in 2013 and began anchoring Weekend Update in 2014. Though he previously considered stepping down in 2022, he continued and now ranks as the second-longest-serving Update host after Jost.

Jost, who started as a writer in 2005, served as co-head writer twice and joined the Weekend Update desk in 2014. He became the longest-running anchor in the segment’s history in 2021. Unlike Che, who mentioned possible departure plans during a February comedy show, Jost has remained publicly silent. With his wife Scarlett Johansson hosting the finale, some fans wonder if he will use the occasion to announce his exit.

If both leave, it would be the first time since 2000 that Weekend Update lacks a returning anchor. While replacements haven’t been confirmed, cast member Michael Longfellow and Update writer Rosebud Baker are seen as possible successors. Viewers will find out during tonight’s live episode.