SNL is embracing a season of comedic evolution. After a landmark 50th anniversary, Saturday Night Live is set to premiere its 51st season on October 4, 2025, with a noticeable shift in its cast. According to reports from CNN and Entertainment Weekly, five new featured players are joining the ranks, while four established cast members are departing, signaling a significant refresh for the long-running NBC sketch comedy series. This transformation, driven by a desire to inject new energy into the show, includes promoting talent from within and embracing comedians with strong online presences.
New Faces at Studio 8H
The upcoming season will introduce five new featured players to the SNL stage. Ben Marshall, previously known for his work with the comedy trio “Please Don’t Destroy,” is among the fresh talent. Marshall’s promotion, as noted by Vulture, signifies a change in the group’s role, as “Please Don’t Destroy” will no longer be producing their signature digital shorts for the show. However, Marshall, John Higgins, and Martin Herlihy will continue to collaborate on other projects.
Joining Marshall are stand-up comedians Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Kam Patterson, and Veronika Slowikowska. Culhane, Patterson, and Slowikowska, in particular, bring a strong online presence to the show, boasting substantial followings on TikTok, where they are known for their comedic videos, as reported by The Daily Beast.
Departures and Changes
Alongside the new additions, several cast members will be leaving SNL. Heidi Gardner, a veteran of eight seasons, is among those departing, as reported by People.com. Michael Longfellow and Devon Walker, who both joined in 2022, will also not be returning, according to Newsweek. Additionally, Emil Wakim, who was a featured player last season, will not be part of Season 51.
Another significant change involves “Please Don’t Destroy.” With Ben Marshall becoming a featured player, the group’s dynamic within the show is shifting. John Higgins is departing SNL, while Martin Herlihy will remain on the writing staff, as detailed by SlashFilm. This restructuring marks the end of their signature digital shorts, a staple of recent SNL seasons.
A Season of Reinvention
Lorne Michaels’ Vision
The cast shake-up is reportedly driven by executive producer Lorne Michaels’ desire to “shake things up” and “reinvent” the series following its 50th anniversary, according to The Washington Post. This significant turnover is seen as an effort to inject new energy and comedic perspectives into the show, ensuring its continued relevance in the ever-evolving comedy landscape.
Impact on SNL’s Comedy Style
The influx of new talent, particularly those with a strong digital presence, is expected to bring diverse comedic styles to Studio 8H. According to Cracked.com, the addition of TikTok comedians could influence the show’s format and content, potentially incorporating more short-form, internet-friendly humor. The departure of seasoned performers and the restructuring of “Please Don’t Destroy’s” involvement signify a shift away from established comedic formulas.
SNL’s Digital Evolution
The inclusion of comedians with substantial TikTok followings highlights SNL’s increasing recognition of the importance of digital platforms in shaping contemporary comedy. Jeremy Culhane, Kam Patterson, and Veronika Slowikowska have cultivated large audiences through their online videos, demonstrating an ability to connect with viewers in the digital space. As News Channel 3-12 points out, their addition to the cast could signal a broader strategy to engage with younger audiences and tap into the viral potential of online comedy.
While “Please Don’t Destroy” will no longer produce their signature digital shorts, their influence on SNL’s digital presence remains. The group’s unique brand of absurdist humor resonated with online viewers, and their transition reflects a broader evolution in how SNL approaches digital content. The trio will continue to work together on other projects, suggesting that their comedic partnership will extend beyond the confines of SNL, according to Reddit discussions.
Looking Ahead to Season 51
As Season 51 approaches, the extensive cast overhaul suggests a refreshed ensemble for Saturday Night Live. The combination of established stand-up comedians, digital creators, and returning writers creates a dynamic mix of talent poised to shape the show’s comedic direction. According to 9News, the season premiere on October 4, 2025, will offer a first glimpse into how these changes will translate on screen.
The departure of experienced cast members like Heidi Gardner creates opportunities for new performers to step into the spotlight. The addition of Ben Marshall as a featured player could also lead to new collaborations and comedic pairings within the cast. As noted by The Mirror, the success of Season 51 will depend on how effectively SNL integrates its new talent and adapts to the changing landscape of comedy.
The significant cast changes for SNL’s 51st season reflect a strategic effort to revitalize the show and adapt to the evolving comedy landscape. By embracing digital talent and restructuring existing comedic partnerships, executive producer Lorne Michaels aims to inject new energy and perspectives into the long-running sketch comedy series, ensuring its continued relevance for years to come.
