Emil Wakim Departs SNL Amid Season 51 Cast Shake-Up
Emil Wakim has officially confirmed that he won’t be returning to Saturday Night Live for its upcoming 51st season. The comedian, who joined the iconic sketch show just last year during its milestone 50th anniversary, shared the news on social media. In his post, he described the moment as “a gut punch of a call to get,” but also expressed deep gratitude for having had the chance to be part of the legendary late-night program.
For Wakim, it was an exciting and whirlwind season. Most of his work could be seen in Weekend Update segments, where he brought sharp takes and comedic timing to the desk. But as with many first-season cast members who don’t return, it seems his run on the show will be remembered as short but memorable. He joins the ranks of performers like Brooks Whelan, Noel Wells, and Michaela Watkins—talents who had just one season to leave their mark before moving on.
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The news of Wakim’s exit comes on the heels of other big changes at SNL . Just days earlier, Devon Walker, who had been with the show for three seasons, also announced his departure. Walker spoke candidly about his time at SNL , calling the experience “sometimes really cool” but also “toxic as hell.” Meanwhile, longtime writer Celeste Yim also confirmed they would be stepping away after five seasons. All of this hints at a significant transition behind the scenes as creator Lorne Michaels and producers recalibrate the cast ahead of the new season.
Late August has traditionally been the time when SNL producers finalize casting decisions. Some departures happen because performers are ready to take on new challenges, while others occur when newer players haven’t quite “broken out” in the crowded ensemble. Lorne Michaels himself recently hinted in an interview that shake-ups were coming, promising announcements within weeks.
Despite the bittersweet ending, Wakim used his farewell to focus on what’s ahead. He thanked Michaels for the opportunity and said he was “so lucky to bring some of myself in there and say things I believed in.” While he didn’t announce specific projects yet, his words carried optimism, saying he was “excited for whatever chapter comes next” and eager to make more art without compromise.
For fans, Wakim’s exit may feel abrupt, but it also underscores the nature of SNL . The show has always thrived on reinvention. For every cast member who leaves, a new face appears, ready to step into the spotlight. And while Wakim’s time at 30 Rock was brief, it has clearly been formative, giving him a platform that will likely propel him into new opportunities in comedy, television, or beyond.
As SNL heads into its 51st season, set to premiere on October 4, all eyes will be on how the cast reshuffle plays out. Emil Wakim’s future remains unwritten, but if his note of gratitude and excitement is any indication, this is less an ending than the beginning of something new.
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