Three More ‘SNL’ Cast Members Departing Show Ahead Of Season 48 After Loss Of Stars

Topline

Three additional Saturday Night Live cast members will not be returning for the long-running sketch comedy show’s 48th season, according to multiple reports Thursday, after heavyweights Pete Davidson, Kate McKinnon, Aidy Bryant and Kyle Mooney left the show earlier this year.

Key Facts

Repertory players Melissa Villaseñor and Alex Moffat, who joined the show in 2016, and featured player Aristotle Athiras, who joined the show last season, will not be returning in the fall.

Forbes has reached out to NBC for comment.

Key Background

McKinnon and Bryant had been on SNL since 2012, Mooney had since 2013 and Davidson had since 2014. The resignations are not just coming from the cast. Last week, producer Lindsay Shookus announced she was leaving the show after 20 years. The network has not yet announced its cast for season 48. Villaseñor was best known for her celebrity impressions, like Lady Gaga, and her wild characters, like Mrs. Gomez, the woman who died singing Nickelback. Moffat made a name for himself portraying Eric Trump the Guy Who Just Bought A Boat.

What To Watch For

Season 48 of SNL is expected to air sometime this fall.

Big Number

19. That’s how many years Keenan Thompson has been on SNL, longer than any other cast member.

Further Reading

‘SNL’ Veterans Alex Moffat, Melissa Villasenor to Exit Ahead of Season 48 Premiere (The Wrap) ‘SNL’ Loses Three More Cast Members Ahead of Season 48 (The Hollywood Reporter)

‘SNL’ Cast Shakeup Continues: Melissa Villaseñor, Alex Moffat, Aristotle Athari to Depart (Variety)

‘Saturday Night Live’: Alex Moffat, Melissa Villaseñor & Aristotle Athari Not Returning For Season 48 (Deadline)