Sun Sep 14 04:20:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Ego Nwodim, a popular cast member known for characters like Lisa From Temecula, has announced her departure from “Saturday Night Live” after seven seasons. She is the fifth cast member to leave the show this summer, joining Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim. Nwodim expressed gratitude for her time on the show and highlighted the lessons and memories she gained. Season 51 of “Saturday Night Live” is set to premiere on October 4th with five new cast members joining the team.

**News Article:**

**Ego Nwodim Exits “Saturday Night Live” After Seven Seasons, Marking Fifth Cast Departure This Summer**

NEW YORK – “Saturday Night Live” is undergoing a significant shakeup as Ego Nwodim, a beloved cast member known for her memorable characters like Lisa From Temecula and her spot-on Dionne Warwick impression, has announced her departure after seven seasons. Nwodim shared the news on Friday, marking her as the fifth cast member to leave the iconic sketch comedy show this summer.

“The hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight,” Nwodim wrote in a social media post, expressing her gratitude to creator Lorne Michaels, her fellow cast members, writers, and the crew. “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.”

Nwodim’s departure follows those of veteran cast member Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim, indicating a major shift in the show’s landscape.

The 37-year-old comedian was known for her strong and often “wrong” characters, including Veronda, the “rich auntie with no kids.” She even navigated a potentially controversial “Weekend Update” segment earlier this year when audience responded an expletive that could have resulted in FCC fine.

As “Saturday Night Live” prepares for its 51st season, five new faces will be joining the cast: Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall, Kam Patterson, and Veronika Slowikowska. The new season premieres on October 4th. It remains to be seen how these changes will impact the show’s dynamic as it enters a new era.

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