Michael Longfellow is leaving Saturday Night Live (SNL) after three seasons, ahead of the long-running sketch show’s 51st season premiere on 4 October 2025.
Longfellow joined the NBC series in 2022 as a featured player for Season 48 and was promoted to the main cast during the 50th season in 2024. His departure follows those of Devon Walker and Emil Wakim, with more cast changes expected before the new season.
A stand-up comedian from Phoenix, Arizona, Longfellow became known for his appearances on “Weekend Update,” including segments about TikTok and REAL ID. In May 2025, he was screen-tested as a possible “Weekend Update” anchor alongside writer KC Shornima, amid speculation over whether current anchors Colin Jost and Michael Che might step down.
Despite his early promise, Longfellow’s airtime was reduced during Season 50, which he jokingly addressed in a “Weekend Update” appearance, saying he worked “like 12 hours a week.”
Outside SNL, Longfellow has appeared in Good Burger 2 (2023), performed at the Netflix Is a Joke festival, and toured nationally with his 2024 stand-up show Summer Jobs. He also made his late-night talk show debut on Late Night with Seth Meyers in March 2025.
No official reason has been given for his exit, though industry reports suggest he may be exploring new projects, including a possible late-night format.
The changes come as executive producer Lorne Michaels prepares for what he has described as a reinvention of the show following its 50th anniversary celebrations. Fans reacted with disappointment online, praising Longfellow’s timing and potential as a future “Weekend Update” anchor.
