Comedian Devon Walker, 34, said his exit from NBC’s Saturday Night Live was a mutual decision, telling Rolling Stone on that he and the show agreed it was “time to go our separate ways.” The clarification follows his announcement that he would leave after three seasons, amid additional cast changes ahead of season 51 this fall.
Key Takeaways
- Walker described his departure as a joint decision with SNL, emphasizing no lingering bad blood.
- He cited the show’s heavy time commitment and a desire to pursue different work and life priorities.
- His exit came after three seasons; he joined the cast in 2022 and announced his departure on August 25, 2025.
- Further cast moves include departures by Michael Longfellow, Emil Wakim, and Heidi Gardner.
- Walker praised colleagues and mentors, including writers Gary Richardson and Alex English, and cast member James Austin Johnson.
- He reflected on the camaraderie of the franchise, noting the shared shorthand among current and former SNL players, from Adam Sandler to today’s cast.
- SNL season 51 is slated to return on NBC this fall.
Verified Facts
In a new interview published by Rolling Stone on August 30, Walker framed his SNL exit as a collaborative decision: he felt ready to move on, and believed the show felt similarly. He emphasized that the schedule represented a major life commitment and said he wanted to try a “different version” of his life and work.
Walker initially surprised fans on August 25 by announcing his departure. That message included candid reflections that his experience had highs and lows, at one point calling parts of it “toxic.” In his later remarks, he downplayed any notion of ongoing conflict.
He credited the sense of family on the show to his close collaboration with writers Gary Richardson and Alex English during his first two seasons. He also highlighted support from castmate James Austin Johnson and the broader SNL network of alumni.
Walker referenced the franchise’s shared culture, recalling the 50th anniversary celebrations in February 2025 and interactions with alumni such as Adam Sandler, describing an instant understanding among people who have done the job.
Context & Impact
Walker’s exit is one of several changes ahead of SNL’s 51st season. Alongside his departure, Michael Longfellow, Emil Wakim, and Heidi Gardner are also exiting, signaling a fresh reset for the ensemble heading into the fall.
Cast turnover is a recurring feature of SNL’s long history; departures often coincide with contract cycles and career opportunities beyond the show. Walker framed his next steps as an opportunity to focus on projects that align more directly with his creative aims.
Fan reaction has mixed surprise with curiosity about the new lineup. Alumni have weighed in, too: former cast member Punkie Johnson reacted to news of additional exits on social media with disbelief and encouragement for colleagues moving on.
Official Statements
“We decided together that it was time to go our separate ways,” Walker told Rolling Stone, adding that he is grateful for the work and relationships built at SNL.
Devon Walker, via Rolling Stone
“I’m genuinely very excited for what’s next,” Walker said, noting pride in his SNL work and eagerness to pursue passion projects.
Devon Walker, via Rolling Stone
Social Reaction Snapshot
Former cast member Punkie Johnson, who departed in 2024, captured fan whiplash over the recent changes by reacting to Michael Longfellow’s exit on Instagram with a mix of humor, affection, and support.
Unconfirmed
- Specific contractual details behind Walker’s exit and others have not been publicly disclosed by NBC or SNL.
- Exact premiere date and full season 51 roster had not been officially announced at the time of publication.
- Walker’s next project(s) are not yet announced.
Bottom Line
Devon Walker’s SNL departure appears amicable and deliberate: a mutual decision to move on after three seasons. With multiple cast exits and a new season approaching, SNL prepares another ensemble reset as Walker looks ahead to projects more closely aligned with his creative priorities.