Michael Longfellow Reflects on His Departure from SNL
Michael Longfellow, who used to be a cast member on Saturday Night Live, recently opened up about his decision to leave the show.
In an Instagram post on Thursday, he shared a behind-the-scenes photo of himself at the Weekend Update desk. It caught that candid moment from someone else’s perspective.
In a heartfelt caption, he mentioned, “I will not return for my fourth season at SNL.”
Longfellow, 31, joined the iconic NBC sketch series during Season 48 in 2022. He wrapped up his time after Season 50 this week, calling it “the best three years of my life so far.” It’s bittersweet, really.
“I’m just thankful for the opportunity and everyone involved. Lonely, you handed me the biggest opportunity of my life and truly changed my path,” he added. “If I learned anything from SNL, it’s that I can make smoking trendy and, you know, Jesus was Chinese.”
His post drew comments from several celebrities and fellow SNL alumni.
Comedian Jill Kimmel, sister of Jimmy Kimmel, noted, “Their loss, you were a fantastic part of the cast.”
Bowen Yang, who continues to be part of SNL, quipped, “Jesus was Chinese. I love Michael.” It seems there’s a lot of mutual admiration.
Molly Shannon expressed her appreciation, stating, “You rocked, Michael. It was a privilege to meet and work with you. Congrats on a great run at SNL! I loved our conversations.”
Hanna Einbinder, known for “Hacking” and an Emmy nominee, chimed in, “Michael, you’re one of the funniest comedians I know! Much love to you.”
Chloe Feynman also shared, “I miss your sleepy self on the earlier tapes.”
Longfellow’s exit comes amid what seems like a significant reshuffle in the cast.
Reports suggest that SNL is undergoing notable changes as Season 51 approaches, with several other cast members also announcing their departures this week. Emile Wakim and Devon Walker are leaving, and Heidi Gardner is departing after eight years. Additionally, Rosebud Baker, who contributed as a writer from 2022 to 2025, is also moving on.
In response to the shakeup, former SNL star Panky Johnson commented on Longfellow’s post.
In a recent chat with a media outlet, Lorne Michaels, the longstanding SNL executive, confirmed he is planning to “shake things up” with the cast.
Season 50 featured notable names like Johnson, Michael Che, Colin Jost, and Longfellow, among others. It’s a mix of established stars and newer faces, including Ashley Padilla, Wakim, and Jane Wickline.
In closing, Longfellow shared, “I will miss it all, but I’ll really miss the friends I made and the moments we shared. I’m looking forward to the future and what’s next.”
