Cast Changes for Season 51
The reshuffling of the cast at “Saturday Night Live” continues, with Ben Marshall being promoted to featured player. Joining him in this role are Veronika Slowikowska, Jeremy Culhane, Kam Patterson, and Tommy Brennan.
This development is part of a broader overhaul at “SNL,” which recently saw the exit of Heidi Gardner after eight seasons, as well as Michael Longfellow and Devon Walker following three seasons each, and Emil Wakim after just one season.
Notable Newcomers
Ben Marshall
Marshall, now entering his fifth season with the NBC sketch comedy show, initially joined as part of the comedy trio Please Don’t Destroy. John Higgins, another member of the trio, is departing the show, while Martin Herlihy remains on board as a writer.
Veronika Slowikowska
Slowikowska has gained popularity for her viral comedy sketches shared on Instagram, where she has amassed 1 million followers. Her acting portfolio includes a role in Shane Gillis’ Netflix series “Tires” and appearances in FX’s “What We Do in the Shadows.”
Jeremy Culhane
Culhane, known for his active presence on social media, frequently appears on Dropout TV and performs with the Upright Citizens Brigade in Los Angeles.
Kam Patterson
Patterson, a stand-up comedian, is a regular on Tony Hinchcliffe’s podcast “Kill Tony” and will soon be featured in Kevin Hart’s Netflix film “72 Hours.”
Tommy Brennan
Brennan made headlines this year after being named to the Just for Laughs New Face of Comedy list, and has showcased his talents on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”
Farewell Messages
Walker announced his exit from “SNL” on Instagram on August 25, reflecting, “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. We made a fucked up lil family.”
Wakim also shared his thoughts on leaving, stating, “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. Every time I scanned into the building I would think how insane it is to get to work there. It was 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.”
Season Premiere
“Saturday Night Live” Season 51 is set to premiere on NBC on October 4. This season follows a milestone 50th anniversary, which was celebrated with multiple documentaries, a concert special at Radio City Music Hall, and a three-hour telecast featuring “SNL” legends.
