As Saturday Night Live gears up for its 51st season, the iconic sketch comedy show is undergoing a significant shake-up. Five new featured players have been announced, bringing a fresh wave of talent to the Studio 8H stage. This comes as several familiar faces, including Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim, have confirmed their departures.
Let’s meet the new class of comedians set to join the cast, and get an update on some familiar names.
The New Featured Players
Veronika Slowikowska The sole Canadian in the new cast, Veronika Slowikowska is an actress and comedian from Barrie, Ontario. She has amassed a huge following on social media, particularly Instagram and TikTok, with her viral sketch comedy content. Slowikowska’s professional acting credits include roles in the Netflix series Tires and FX’s What We Do in the Shadows. She is 29 years old. Slowikowska’s comedy often features her roommate and now-confirmed boyfriend, fellow comedian Kyle Chase.
Kam Patterson Kam Patterson is a stand-up comedian from Orlando, Florida, who gained widespread recognition through his frequent appearances on the live comedy podcast “Kill Tony.” His stand-up has led to a spot on the Netflix special 72 Hours, and he is set to appear in an upcoming Kevin Hart film. Patterson is known for his quick-witted and observational style.
Jeremy Culhane Known for his work on the online comedy platform Dropout TV and his improv performances with the Upright Citizens Brigade in Los Angeles, Jeremy Culhane is another new face for Season 51. He has also garnered a following for his viral online videos. Culhane’s background in both online content creation and traditional improv makes him a well-rounded addition to the cast.
Tommy Brennan Tommy Brennan joins the SNL cast after being selected as a “Just for Laughs New Face of Comedy” in 2023. He has also showcased his comedic talent on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Brennan brings his stand-up and sketch experience to the show.
Ben Marshall A familiar name to many SNL fans, Ben Marshall has been promoted from writer to featured player. He is one-third of the popular comedy trio Please Don’t Destroy, which has been creating viral digital shorts for SNL for the past four seasons.
The State of Please Don’t Destroy
With Marshall’s promotion, there’s been some news regarding the other members of his comedy trio, Please Don’t Destroy.
John Higgins John Higgins, another key member of Please Don’t Destroy, has confirmed that he will be departing the SNL writing staff. He announced the news on his Instagram, stating that he is excited to pursue new acting opportunities. Higgins has a deep connection to the show, as he is the son of longtime SNL writer and producer, Steve Higgins. He is married to comedian Emily Wilson.
Martin Herlihy Martin Herlihy, the third member of the trio, is expected to remain on as a writer for the show.
The new season of Saturday Night Live is scheduled to premiere on October 4, airing live on NBC and streaming on Peacock.
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