Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker and more depart ‘SNL’ ahead of Season 51

Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker, Michael Longfellow, Emil Wakim and writer Celeste Yim exit ‘SNL’ before Season 51.
Pop Culture & Art | August 29, 2025

Photo: NBC

Saturday Night Live undergoes significant cast changes ahead of Season 51 as NBC has confirmed Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker, Michael Longfellow, Emil Wakim and writer Celeste Yim will not return.

Gardner, who joined in 2017, leaves after eight seasons. Known for “Weekend Update” characters such as Bailey Gismert and Angel, she became the longest-tenured female cast member by Season 50. Beyond SNL, she has built a successful career in television and film, including roles in Shrinking and Hustle.

Walker, who spent three seasons on the show, announced his exit on Instagram, reflecting: “me and baby broke up.” He described the experience as rewarding but also “toxic as hell.”

Longfellow, another three-year cast member, wrote: “Will not be returning for a 4th season at SNL. Wish I was but, so it goes.” He credited Lorne Michaels with giving him “the greatest job in the world.”

Wakim, a featured player, described his departure as “a gut punch of a call” but said he valued the opportunity to perform on the 30 Rock stage.

Writer Celeste Yim also exits after five years. They noted their pride in being “the first ever out trans person to be a writer for SNL” while describing the role as both “grueling” and transformative.

Season 51 of Saturday Night Live will premiere on October 4 on NBC, marking a new chapter with fresh cast dynamics.

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