Another Saturday Night Live favorite is leaving the show ahead of its upcoming season.
On Friday, September 12, Ego Nwodim revealed that she has chosen to depart SNL after seven seasons. She took to Instagram to share the news and bid a heartfelt farewell to the show and her castmates.
“The hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight,” Nwodim wrote. “But after seven unforgettable seasons, I have decided to leave SNL. I am immensely grateful to [creator and showrunner] Lorne Michaels for the opportunity, to my castmates, the writers, and the crew for their brilliance, support, and friendship.”
During her run on the show, Nwodim was known for her quick-witted, memorable one-liners and her humorous social commentary. Some fan favorite characters of the well-done steak-loving Lisa from Temecula and the Weekend Update commentator Miss Eggy. Most recently, she prompted a viral moment on the show during a Weekend Update segment when she declared “These men ain’t what?” with the audience responding “s**t!” — visibly taking her by surprise.
She continued her farewell note expressing gratitude for her run on SNL, which began during the show’s 44th season in 2018. “Week after week on that stage taught me more than I could have ever imagined, and I will carry those memories (and that laughter) with me always now invite me to your weddings please!!!”
Nwodim is the latest SNL cast member to depart the show. Last month, it was reported that Michael Longfellow, Heidi Gardner, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim would not return for the show’s 51st season, much to fans’ surprise.
Outside of SNL, Nwodim is set to star in the upcoming films Gabby’s Dollhouse and Little Brother.
SNL’s 51st season will premiere Saturday, Oct. 4 on NBC and Peacock.