Former Saturday Night Live stars Ego Nwodim and Heidi Gardner are set to rekindle their on-screen chemistry and off-screen friendship on the second season of Nwodim’s award-winning Thanks Dad podcast. Premiering October 28, this highly anticipated reunion marks a new era for both comedians as they navigate their careers post-SNL.
The comedic world is buzzing with excitement as two beloved former Saturday Night Live cast members, Ego Nwodim and Heidi Gardner, announce their reunion on Nwodim’s popular interview podcast, Thanks Dad. This collaboration comes shortly after both comedians departed from the iconic sketch show, signaling new creative directions for their careers while celebrating their enduring friendship.
The Highly Anticipated Podcast Reunion
Season two of Thanks Dad is set to premiere on October 28, with Heidi Gardner as the inaugural guest. Fans can expect a deeply personal and hilariously candid conversation between the two friends. Topics on their list include their journey to becoming best friends during their time at SNL, Gardner’s mother’s quirky ex-boyfriends, their shared admiration for actor Jack Black, and even the intimacy of “FaceTiming naked in the shower”—promising a truly unfiltered look into their bond, as reported by Entertainment Weekly.
The podcast’s move to iHeartMedia and Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players Network for its second season signifies a major step. This new partnership expands the show’s reach and allows Nwodim to broaden the scope of her interviews beyond the original premise of speaking with famous fathers. While season one featured notable guests like Andy Cohen, Randall Park, Kyle Mooney, and Bill Burr, the upcoming season will welcome a wider range of voices, including Tamron Hall and Miguel, offering fresh perspectives and meaningful dialogue.
In a statement regarding the new venture, Nwodim expressed her excitement: “I’m so thrilled to be partnering with iHeartPodcasts, Will Ferrell and Big Money Players for season two of Thanks Dad. This season, I’m speaking with a broader range of guests, while staying true to the heart of the podcast — to connect, inspire and bring some joy,” as stated in an iHeartMedia press release.
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Ego Nwodim and Heidi Gardner on ‘Saturday Night Live’
Post-SNL Ventures: A New Chapter for Both Comedians
The reunion holds particular significance given Nwodim and Gardner’s recent departures from Saturday Night Live. Nwodim announced her exit in September after seven seasons, stating on Instagram, “The hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight. But after seven unforgettable seasons, I have decided to leave SNL.” She expressed immense gratitude to Lorne Michaels, her castmates, writers, and crew for the invaluable experience. Her decision to leave was driven by a desire to pursue other opportunities, including the continued growth of her podcast, as confirmed by Entertainment Weekly.
Gardner’s departure was revealed in late August after eight seasons. While she has yet to publicly address the specifics of her exit, her continued collaboration with Nwodim offers fans a familiar and comforting dynamic.
Since leaving SNL, both comedians have quickly embarked on new projects, showcasing their versatility and demand in the entertainment industry.
Ego Nwodim’s Diverse Projects:
- Thanks Dad Podcast: Season two, featuring an expanded guest list and new network partnership.
- Off-Broadway Debut: Nwodim is set to perform her first Off-Broadway comedy show at Lincoln Center Theater’s Claire Tow Theater in New York City. Directed by Zhailon Levingston, the show will run from November 19 to November 23 as part of The Comedy Series, which also features works from comedians like Jerrod Carmichael, Vir Das, and Sam Jay.
- Netflix Film: She recently wrapped production on Matt Spicer’s Little Brother, an upcoming Netflix comedy film. Nwodim stars alongside a stellar cast, including John Cena, Eric Andre, Michelle Monaghan, Christopher Meloni, and Sherry Cola.
Heidi Gardner’s Broadway Role:
- Broadway’s All Out: Gardner has joined the cast of the Broadway production All Out. Written by former SNL writer Simon Rich, the show also features several other SNL alumni, including Cecily Strong, Jon Stewart, and Ray Romano, further highlighting the strong community and collaborations among the show’s former cast members.
Dia Dipasupil/Getty
Ego Nwodim attends ‘SNL50: The Homecoming Concert’ on Feb. 14, 2025
Why This Reunion Matters to Fans
For fans of Saturday Night Live and sketch comedy, the reunion of Ego Nwodim and Heidi Gardner is a significant event. Their on-screen chemistry and off-screen camaraderie were palpable during their overlapping tenures, making their joint appearance on Thanks Dad a natural progression that promises deep insights and plenty of laughs. This reunion not only offers a chance to hear untold stories from their SNL days but also provides a glimpse into the next exciting phase of their careers.
The podcast provides an intimate platform, allowing the comedians to connect with their audience in a way that differs from live television. It emphasizes their bond beyond their characters and sketches, highlighting the personal stories and shared experiences that shaped their friendship and careers. As both Nwodim and Gardner forge new paths, their reunion on Thanks Dad stands as a testament to the lasting connections made in the demanding world of live television and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for these talented performers.
New weekly episodes of Thanks Dad with Ego Nwodim will be available on Tuesdays via the iHeartRadio app and other podcast platforms.
