SNL Alumna Punkie Johnson Reacts to Multiple Cast Departures
Following Saturday Night Live's milestone 50th season, Lorne Michaels is restructuring the cast, leaving a former cast member stunned by the mass exodus.
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Lorne Michaels, who has been producing Saturday Night Live for decades, is implementing major cast changes after the show's historic 50th season. Multiple performers and writers have announced their departures, including Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, Michael Longfellow, Heidi Gardner, and writers Rosebud Baker and Celeste Yim.
Punkie Johnson, who was a cast member from 2020 to 2024, has been publicly supporting her former colleagues through heartfelt Instagram comments. She welcomed Devon back to civilian life, expressing that it's enjoyable outside the show. Her reaction to Emil's departure was one of shock, and she playfully suggested protesting at NBC headquarters.
Johnson's message to Michael Longfellow was particularly touching, calling him her 'sexy handsome work husband.' These departures occurred after the SNL50 anniversary special aired in May, which unusually didn't feature traditional farewell segments. Michaels has confirmed his intention to refresh the cast before the 51st season begins.
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