Exciting Cast Announced for SNL Season 51: Chloe Fineman, Bowen Yang, and Kenan Thompson Are Back!

Lorne Michaels is shaking things up for the start of Saturday Night Live‘s 51st season on October 4. Some familiar faces will return, including the beloved Kenan Thompson, alongside Chloe Fineman, Bowen Yang, Ego Nwodim, Mikey Day, and Michael Che. Michael will continue to host Weekend Update with Colin Jost.

New cast members are joining the mix: Andrew Dismukes, Marcello Hernandez, James Austin Johnson, Sarah Sherman, Ashley Padilla, and Jane Wickline will bring fresh energy, along with newcomers Ben Marshall, Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Kam Patterson, and Veronika Slowikowska.

Ben Marshall is part of the popular comedy group Please Don’t Destroy, known for their hilarious sketches that have become a staple on the show since they joined in 2021. While they’ll continue to create content outside of SNL, some changes are coming. John Higgins is leaving the show, but Martin Herlihy will remain as a writer.

This cast change follows the summer departures of notable stars like Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, and Michael Longfellow. Cast shakeups are nothing new for SNL; they happen almost every year as Michaels looks to refresh the lineup. Some transitions are more gradual, while others can be quite dramatic.

With the show’s 50th anniversary now behind it, Michaels and the creative team are excited for what’s next. Many fans are relieved to see their favorite stars staying on to keep the show lively. Interestingly, it’s common for cast members to announce their exits mid-season, leading to heartfelt tributes on air.

In recent years, audience engagement on social media has surged during these cast changes, with fans sharing their thoughts and reactions. Polls indicate that many viewers enjoy both the familiar faces and the excitement of new talent.

As SNL continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the blend of seasoned comedians and fresh talent shapes the show’s future. This season promises to be one of exploration and creativity, building on the legacy of one of America’s longest-running shows.

For more details, check out The Hollywood Reporter.

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