Why Is Emil Wakim Leaving SNL?

Photo Credit: Chinaza Ajuonuma | NBC via Getty Images

Leaving Saturday Night Live (SNL) after just one season, Emil Wakim’s exit has sparked questions about the show’s latest shakeups. As SNL prepares for its 51st season, his departure joins a wave of cast changes that already includes Devon Walker, fueling speculation about who might be next. With Lorne Michaels hinting at more adjustments ahead, fans are watching closely to see how the lineup evolves.

Here’s what we know about why Emil Wakim is leaving SNL and what it means for the show’s new chapter.

Why Emil Wakim could be leaving SNL

In a social media post on Wednesday, Emil Wakim wrote, “I won’t be returning to SNL next year. It was a gut punch of a call to get but I’m so grateful for my time there.”

He said he received the call while celebrating a friend’s birthday at Six Flags and reflected, “I went on a really emotional walk through bugs bunny park and stared out across daffy duck lake thinking about life.”

The Lebanese American comedian described his year on the NBC show as “the most terrifying, thrilling, and rewarding experience of my life and I will miss it dearly and all the brilliant people that work there that made it feel like a home.”

Wakim thanked executive producer Lorne Michaels, adding, “Thank u to Lorne for taking a chance on me and changing my life.” He noted, “I was so lucky to bring some of myself in there and say things I believed in and I’m excited for whatever chapter comes next. Here’s to making more art without compromise.”

Wakim’s departure comes just days after Devon Walker revealed he would also be leaving following three seasons. Walker posted on Instagram, “Me and the show did three years together, and sometimes it was really cool. Sometimes it was toxic as hell. But we made the most of what it was, even amidst all of the dysfunction.” He also called his time on the show a “little marriage,” writing, “Permanent until they’re not. That’s the deal.”

Lorne Michaels told Puck last week that cast changes were imminent, saying “yes” when asked if he expected to “shake things up.” He added, “It’ll be announced in a week or so.”

NBC has not issued a comment.

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