Story perspectives

Please Don’t Destroy Trio Adapts After SNL Cast Changes

9/7/2025

Summary

Story summary

The comedy trio Please Don’t Destroy (PDD) includes Ben Marshall, Martin Herlihy, and John Higgins, active on “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) since 2021.
Following SNL's season 51 cast shake-up, Higgins left to pursue acting, while Marshall joined the main cast.
Despite these changes, PDD will continue collaborating outside of SNL, recently performing together in Portland.
PDD formed in 2017, gaining traction through social media sketches during the COVID-19 pandemic.
NBC added five new featured players for season 51 after multiple cast departures.

History

Historical Context

Since its debut in 1975, "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) has experienced numerous cast changes, reflecting shifts in comedy and audience preferences. The comedy group Please Don’t Destroy, formed in 2017, gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic, amassing over 1 million followers. In 2021, they joined SNL, marking a significant evolution in the show's approach to digital content and comedy.

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Story summary

The comedy trio Please Don’t Destroy (PDD) includes Ben Marshall, Martin Herlihy, and John Higgins, active on “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) since 2021.
Following SNL's season 51 cast shake-up, Higgins left to pursue acting, while Marshall joined the main cast.
Despite these changes, PDD will continue collaborating outside of SNL, recently performing together in Portland.
PDD formed in 2017, gaining traction through social media sketches during the COVID-19 pandemic.
NBC added five new featured players for season 51 after multiple cast departures.

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