SNL’ Season 51: Returning cast members revealed

Saturday Night Live is gearing up for its 51st season.

After the shocking news of many cast members exiting the show following its 50th season, fans are eager to know who’s coming back.

The news of the first departure from the sketch comedy show came on August 25, 2025, when Devon Walker took to his Instagram account to announce that he will no longer be a part of SNL, and just two days later this news was followed by Emil Wakim on August 27.

However, the news of the cast members leaving didn’t stop there. Michael Longfellow, Heidi Gardner, and Ego Nwodim also shocked fans after they confirmed they will be exiting the show as well.

Here is a list of some of the fan favourite cast members returning for the upcoming season:

Bowen Yang

Wicked actor Bowen Yang will be coming back for his seventh season.

The 34-year-old actor and comedian broke new ground during his time on SNL, by becoming the first featured cast member ever to score a nomination for an Emmy.

Kenan Thompson

Fan favourite Kenan Thompson will also be returning to the sketch comedy show as the longest serving cast member for his 23rd season.

Chloe Fineman

Now entering her seventh season, Chloe Fineman has set a reputation for spot on celebrity impressions.

Over the years, the 37-year-old comedian and actress has hilariously embodied stars like Jennifer Coolidge, Timothée Chalamet to Drew Barrymore and Nicole Kidman.

Andrew Dismukes

Known for playing dry, often awkward or geeky characters, Andrew Dismukes is also returning to the show for his sixth season.

Colin Jost and Michael Che

Fans will be delighted to know that Colin Jost and Michael Che will indeed come back for the next season of SNL for their 12th season.

Marcello Hernández

Heading into his fourth season, it seems like Marcello Hernández will continue to bring fresh high energy and sharp comedic timing to the sketch comedy show.

He quickly gained popularity after playing the iconic character Domingo, the mysterious love interest in the hit “Bridesmaid Speech”sketch.

Mikey Day

Mikey Day has become a staple of the cast. He will now be marking a major milestone as he enters his 10th season on SNL.

Sarah Sherman

Sarah Sherman, who came under fire after a parody sketch where he impersonated Aimee Lou Wood, will also be returning for her fifth season on SNL.

After the English actress called the sketch 'mean and unfunny,' Sarah addressed the situation by saying she ‘never meant to hurt anyone’s feelings,' while talking to Vanity Fair.

“Never in a million years did I get into comedy to make anyone upset. I feel terrible that anyone would feel bad,” the 32-year-old comedian stated.

After the ordeal, the White Lotus actress took to Instagram to thank Sarah for the 'beautiful flowers.'