‘SNL’ Shake-Up: Show Adds Three New Cast Members For Season 50 After Fans Brand it ‘Unfunny and Woke’: ‘It Sucks’

‘SNL’ Revamps Cast to Address ‘Unfunny’ and ‘Woke’ Critiques from Fans

In a bold move aimed at rekindling interest in the iconic late-night series, Saturday Night Live is welcoming three new cast members for its milestone 50th season. The decision comes on the heels of mounting criticism from viewers who have labeled the show as “unfunny” and “woke.”

Since its inception 49 seasons ago, SNL has become a staple of American pop culture, launching the careers of comedic legends like Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, Adam Sandler, Eddie Murphy, Jimmy Fallon, and Kristen Wiig. However, recent seasons have seen a decline in audience enthusiasm, with die-hard fans expressing discontent over the show’s shift away from its comedic roots toward a more politically correct agenda.

On social media, reactions have been swift. One user lamented, “SNL is so painfully unfunny. Anyone else feel this way?” An avalanche of agreement followed, with another fan stating, “It used to be great, but now it’s just not funny anymore.” An online post featuring Gilda Radner’s beloved character Roseanne Roseannadanna ignited nostalgia, as users reminisced about the humor of yesteryear, with one declaring, “SNL has been unbearable for over a decade; it’s completely WOKE now!”

In response to these alarming viewer sentiments, NBC executives have opted for a significant cast overhaul. The lineup now includes newcomers Ashley Padilla, Emil Wakim, and Jane Wickline, all set to make their debuts when the 50th season premieres on September 28.

Padilla, who has honed her craft with L.A.’s Groundlings since 2021, has made appearances on Larry David’s Curb Your Enthusiasm. Wakim has showcased his stand-up talents on The Tonight Show, while Wickline has gained popularity as part of the TikTok group Stapleview.

The shake-up follows the departure of seasoned cast members Punkie Johnson and Molly Kearney over the summer, while Chloe Troast, who featured in Season 49, revealed in an Instagram story that she wouldn’t be returning. Troast expressed her disappointment at not being asked back, sharing, “It truly felt like home.”

Despite these departures, the upcoming season will see some familiar faces. Cast members Marcello Hernandez, Michael Longfellow, and Devon Walker will be promoted to the main lineup. Additionally, fan favorite Maya Rudolph is set to reprise her role as Vice President Kamala Harris, especially timely with the upcoming presidential election.

As SNL prepares to celebrate its landmark 50th season, excitement builds for a three-hour special planned for February 16, 2025. The effort to rejuvenate the show comes not a moment too soon, as network heads aim to reclaim the audience demographic that has felt left behind.

Stay tuned as we cover the developments and celebrations this historical season is bound to bring. For more breaking entertainment news, keep it right here.