"Saturday Night Live" Welcomes New Cast Members and Bids Farewell to Others in Milestone Season
The 50th season of the iconic late-night sketch show “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) is shaping up to be a transitional period, featuring the introduction of several new performers while saying goodbye to some current cast members.
According to Deadline, Ashley Padilla, Emil Wakim, and Jane Wickline have been added to the cast lineup for the show’s landmark season.
Padilla has been a prominent member of The Groundlings, an esteemed improv troupe, since 2021. She has also made appearances in popular television series such as “Night Court” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”
Emil Wakim, a Lebanese-American comedian, gained recognition as the New Face of Comedy at the 2022 Just For Laughs Comedy Festival. That same year, he made his debut on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”
Jane Wickline rose to fame through her engaging presence on TikTok and is a cast member of the show “Stapleview.” In addition, she will appear in the upcoming 2024 Mubi film “My First Film” and is currently touring with her comedy acts.
While SNL expands its cast, it also bids farewell to some familiar faces. Current cast member Chloe Troast recently announced on social media that she will not be returning for the new season.
“Unfortunately I was not asked back to SNL this season,” Troast stated. “I wish I was going back to be with all the amazing friends I made there, it truly felt like home. But it wasn’t in the cards.”
Additionally, Punkie Johnson and Molly Kearney have also expressed that they will not be returning for Season 50.
As the anniversary season approaches, viewers can expect a blend of celebratory moments and sharp political satire, particularly with the return of former cast member Maya Rudolph, who will periodically reprise her role as Vice President Kamala Harris.