Ego Nwodim’s recent departure from Saturday Night Live to an Off-Broadway stage highlights a long-standing tradition of SNL alumni, from legends like Adam Sandler to rising stars, navigating life and career after Studio 8H, proving the show remains a formidable launchpad for comedic talent.
For decades, Saturday Night Live has served as both a cultural touchstone and a powerful launching pad for comedic talent. The legendary sketch show, which premiered in 1975, has seen a constant rotation of brilliant performers grace its stage. Each season brings new faces and bittersweet goodbyes, as cast members move on to new ventures. The recent news of Ego Nwodim’s departure from SNL and her swift transition to an Off-Broadway engagement perfectly encapsulates this dynamic, highlighting the diverse paths alumni forge after their time in Studio 8H.
Ego Nwodim’s Unexpected Exit and New Stage
Ego Nwodim, a fan favorite who joined SNL in 2018, recently announced her exit after seven seasons on the show. Her departure, described as “unexpected” by some, followed the conclusion of the show’s 50th season. Nwodim shared her sentiments on social media in September 2025, stating, “The hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight,” an emotional reflection on her time with the show.
However, fans won’t have to wait long to see her comedic prowess again. Entertainment Weekly reported that Nwodim is set to star in a new Off-Broadway comedy show at Lincoln Center Theater’s Claire Tow Theater. This new gig, part of The Comedy Series, showcases her talents in a different format, running from November 19 to November 23. The series aims to explore “the space between humor and truth,” indicating a more personal and evolving style of comedy.
Nwodim’s move demonstrates the versatility and ambition often found in SNL alumni. She clarified in a June 2023 interview on Behind the Scenes Beauty w/ D.M. that while she always desired to perform, starring on SNL wasn’t a pre-planned dream. Her journey began with studying biology in college, followed by an internship and improv at LA’s Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre (UCB), underscoring a winding but ultimately successful path to comedy.
The Varied Exits from Studio 8H
Nwodim is not alone in leaving SNL after its 50th season. Parade confirmed that Devon Walker, Heidi Gardner, Emil Wakim, and Michael Longfellow also departed before the 51st season commenced in October 2025. This wave of exits is a common occurrence, illustrating the cyclical nature of the cast roster.
The reasons for leaving SNL are as varied as the comedians themselves. Some, like Adam Sandler, famously recount being fired. Sandler returned to host SNL 24 years after his unceremonious exit in 1995, even performing a song about getting “the sack.” He was joined by fellow alum Chris Rock, who experienced a similar fate the same year, highlighting that even future stars can face an abrupt end to their SNL tenure. During his return, Sandler playfully teased current cast member Pete Davidson about his potential future departure, a humorous nod to the show’s revolving door.
Others, like Vanessa Bayer, left after successful runs, choosing to pursue new projects after seven seasons. Bayer’s experience also sheds light on the intense secrecy surrounding SNL casting announcements. As she revealed on the Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (Sometimes) podcast, new cast members are often sworn to secrecy until an official announcement, even when news leaks. This underscores the immense significance and career-changing potential of joining the prestigious cast.
The Enduring Legacy: SNL as a Launchpad
Despite the constant changes, SNL remains a critical institution in comedy, shaping careers and influencing popular culture. The show’s ability to find and nurture new talent is unparalleled. Many cast members have leveraged their time on SNL into significant careers in film and television, becoming household names.
Notable alumni who have gone on to achieve widespread success include:
- Tina Fey
- Will Ferrell
- Kate McKinnon
- David Spade
- Rob Schneider
- Norm Macdonald
This consistent pipeline of talent affirms SNL’s role not just as an entertainment show, but as a vital incubator for the next generation of comedic stars.
Addressing the “SNL Was Better Before” Debate
The sentiment that “SNL used to be better” is a recurring topic among fans. Current cast member Bowen Yang addressed this directly during an Emmys FYC panel, noting that fans often “are thinking of the best of this cast member, they’re thinking of the hits, and the highlight reels.” He argued that a “highlight reel” only exists because of “a full season of the show,” implying that every era has its standout moments alongside less memorable sketches.
Yang, who joined SNL as a staff writer before becoming the show’s first Chinese American cast member and among the few openly gay performers, has earned four Prime Time Emmy Award nominations for his work, with The Television Academy confirming his consistent recognition. His perspective emphasizes that while individual performances shine, the collective effort across an entire season is what builds the show’s long-term legacy.
Whether through unexpected departures or celebrated transitions, the journey of an SNL cast member is a testament to the show’s impact and the boundless creativity of its alumni. From the iconic Studio 8H to Off-Broadway stages and beyond, these comedians continue to evolve, entertain, and shape the landscape of comedy.
