Wed Jan 07 15:20:00 UTC 2026: ### SNL’s Marcello Hernández Dismisses Departure Rumors After Bowen Yang’s Exit

The Story:
At the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, Marcello Hernández addressed speculation about his future on Saturday Night Live following Bowen Yang’s midseason departure. Speaking to Live From E!’s Justin Sylvester, Hernández reassured fans that he’s “there” and enjoying his time on the show. The comedian, who joined SNL in 2022, expressed his admiration for Yang’s talent and work ethic, viewing him as a role model.

Hernández also highlighted his excitement for his upcoming Netflix special, American Boy, which premieres on January 7, 2026. SNL is nominated for Best Variety Series at the Critics Choice Awards, while former cast member Ego Nwodim is nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Hernández was scheduled to present at the ceremony, which took place at The Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.

Key Points:
* Marcello Hernández confirmed he is not leaving Saturday Night Live despite Bowen Yang’s departure.
* He praised Bowen Yang’s contributions to SNL, describing him as a hard worker and a role model.
* Hernández is releasing his Netflix special, American Boy, on January 7, 2026.
* Saturday Night Live received a Critics Choice Award nomination for Best Variety Series.
* Ego Nwodim, a former SNL cast member, is nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.

Critical Analysis:
The fact that Hernández immediately needed to address the situation reveals the strong public perception of a “mass exodus” from SNL due to Yang’s departure. It highlights the importance that the media and fans place on the stability and continuity of the SNL cast, specifically with a recent spotlight on its stars.

Key Takeaways:
* Cast stability is a key factor in audience perception and media coverage of Saturday Night Live.
* The departure of a prominent cast member like Bowen Yang can trigger speculation about other cast members’ futures.
* Marcello Hernández is actively managing his public image and career trajectory, balancing his commitment to SNL with his solo projects like his Netflix special.
* Awards season continues to provide a platform for entertainment news and announcements.
* Ego Nwodim’s continued success after leaving SNL suggests thriving careers for former cast members.

Impact Analysis:
The situation highlights a potential shift in how comedy is consumed. With platforms like Netflix offering comedians greater creative control and wider audiences, future SNL cast members might be more inclined to pursue parallel projects or transition to streaming services rather than remaining exclusively with the show for extended periods. This could lead to a more fluid cast dynamic on Saturday Night Live in the coming years.

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