— Comedian Devon Walker said his departure from NBC’s Saturday Night Live after three seasons was a mutual decision, adding he’s ready to pursue new work as the Lorne Michaels–led show approaches its Season 51 premiere on October 4.
Key Takeaways
- Walker says he and SNL jointly agreed to part ways after three seasons (2022–2025).
- He joined as a featured player in 2022 and was promoted ahead of the 50th anniversary season.
- Workload and life commitments influenced his choice to seek a different path.
- He is exploring deals tied to his music-themed comedy podcast, My Favorite Lyrics, and aims to try dramatic TV.
- Walker was the first exit announced ahead of Season 51; Emil Wakim, Michael Longfellow and Heidi Gardner departed days later.
- He urged fans not to overreact on social media, saying everyone is “just getting different jobs.”
- SNL returns October 4 with cast changes still unfolding under showrunner Lorne Michaels.
Verified Facts
Walker confirmed in a recent interview reported by industry media that his exit was reached together with SNL leadership. He characterized the decision as timely for both sides and said he wanted space to pursue other creative opportunities.
The comedian joined SNL in 2022 as a featured player and was elevated last season during the show’s 50th anniversary year. Over three seasons, he delivered impressions including Frank Ocean, Michael Strahan, Shannon Sharpe, Draymond Green and New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
On social platforms earlier this week, Walker reflected on a three-year run that mixed high points with challenges, describing the experience as intense but formative. After fans expressed sympathy and frustration at the news, he posted again to play down the drama, noting they were moving on to new jobs.
Walker also indicated he is in discussions related to his music-comedy podcast, My Favorite Lyrics, and expressed interest in dramatic television roles. No partners or timelines were announced.
He was the first cast member to publicly confirm an exit ahead of Season 51. Soon after, Emil Wakim, Michael Longfellow and longtime player Heidi Gardner were also reported to be leaving.
Context & Impact
SNL routinely recalibrates its ensemble between seasons, and multi-exit summers are not unprecedented. The shift ahead of Season 51 suggests new opportunities for incoming performers and writers as the series resets following its milestone 50th year.
For Walker, leaving a high-visibility late-night platform may open doors in scripted television and audio. Alumni commonly leverage SNL exposure into stand-up tours, streaming series, film roles and podcast ventures, and Walker’s focus on music-centered comedy could carve a distinct niche.
The exits also prompt attention to workload and creative bandwidth on long-running sketch shows. Walker’s remarks about the time commitment echo familiar pressures that often shape cast turnover.
Notable Impressions By Devon Walker
- Frank Ocean
- Michael Strahan
- Shannon Sharpe
- Draymond Green
- Eric Adams
Official Statements
Walker said the decision was mutual and that it felt like “time to go our separate ways.”
Devon Walker, interview remarks reported by industry media
“We’re just getting different jobs.”
Devon Walker, post on X addressing fan reactions
Unconfirmed
- Specific companies or distribution partners linked to Walker’s My Favorite Lyrics podcast discussions.
- Whether additional cast changes will be announced before the October 4 premiere.
- The precise size and composition of the Season 51 ensemble at airtime.
Bottom Line
Devon Walker’s three-season SNL run ends by mutual agreement as he pivots to new projects in podcasting and TV. The show’s October 4 return will showcase a refreshed lineup as Season 51 takes shape.