Story perspectives

Ego Nwodim Exits SNL Amid Major Cast Shake-Up

9/12/2025

Summary

Story summary

Ego Nwodim announced her departure from "Saturday Night Live" after seven seasons, thanking her colleagues on Instagram.
Her exit coincides with a cast shake-up, as other members like Heidi Gardner and Devon Walker also leave.
Season 51 will begin without any Black women in the cast, a first since 2014.
Nwodim is known for viral characters like "Lisa from Temecula" and "Miss Eggy."
She plans to pursue more acting roles, including in the Netflix film "Little Brother."

History

Historical Context

In 2014, Sasheer Zamata became the first Black female cast member of "Saturday Night Live," reflecting a long-overdue shift in representation. Despite this progress, the show has faced criticism for its lack of diversity, with a 2016 study revealing that over 90% of episodes featured white hosts. As Season 51 begins without any Black women, concerns about the show's commitment to inclusion intensify.

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Story summary

Ego Nwodim announced her departure from "Saturday Night Live" after seven seasons, thanking her colleagues on Instagram.
Her exit coincides with a cast shake-up, as other members like Heidi Gardner and Devon Walker also leave.
Season 51 will begin without any Black women in the cast, a first since 2014.
Nwodim is known for viral characters like "Lisa from Temecula" and "Miss Eggy."
She plans to pursue more acting roles, including in the Netflix film "Little Brother."

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