The Saturday Night Live cast shake-up continues, and we now have a clearer picture of the new talent heading to Studio 8H. As the show prepares for its Season 51 premiere on October 4, five new featured players have been added to the roster, ushering in a new era for the long-running sketch comedy series.
The news comes on the heels of a number of high-profile departures, including veteran Heidi Gardner and recent additions Michael Longfellow and Devon Walker. But now, it’s time to meet the new class ready to take the stage.
Ben Marshall
The first new featured player is a familiar face to fans of the show’s digital shorts: Ben Marshall. As one-third of the viral comedy trio Please Don’t Destroy, Marshall has been a writer for the show for three seasons. Now, he’s stepping into the spotlight as a featured player, bringing his absurdist humor and internet-savvy sensibilities to the on-screen cast. His promotion signals a new, more prominent role for the trio on the show. (Interestingly, fellow PDD member John Higgins is leaving the show, while Martin Herlihy remains on the writing staff.)
Veronika Slowikowska
Veronika Slowikowska is no stranger to viral comedy. With a million followers on Instagram, she is best known for her hilarious sketches that have captivated online audiences. Her acting credits include the Netflix comedy series Tires and a role on FX’s acclaimed What We Do in the Shadows. Slowikowska’s inclusion is a strong sign that SNL is continuing to tap into the well of social media talent.
Jeremy Culhane
Another social media star joining the ranks is Jeremy Culhane. A prolific creator in the digital space, Culhane is a regular on Dropout TV and performs with the Upright Citizens Brigade in Los Angeles. His wide range of experience in both online content and live improv makes him a perfect fit for the fast-paced world of SNL.
Kam Patterson
A rising star in the stand-up world, Kam Patterson is bringing his unique comedic voice to Studio 8H. He is a regular on Tony Hinchcliffe’s podcast “Kill Tony” and is set to appear in Kevin Hart’s upcoming Netflix film, 72 Hours. Patterson’s addition adds another layer of stand-up expertise to the cast, a tradition that dates back to the show’s earliest days.
Tommy Brennan
Tommy Brennan rounds out the new cast. Named a “Just for Laughs New Face of Comedy” in 2023, Brennan has also performed stand-up on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. His background in live comedy and his fresh face on the national scene make him a compelling addition to the new roster.
The new additions come after an emotional week of goodbyes. Devon Walker, who departed after three seasons, reflected on his time on Instagram, calling the experience a “fucked up lil family” and acknowledging that it was “sometimes toxic as hell” but ultimately “really cool.” Meanwhile, one-season veteran Emil Wakim called his exit a “gut punch” but expressed gratitude for the “most terrifying, thrilling, and rewarding experience” of his life.
With a landmark 50th anniversary season now in the rearview, SNL is looking to the future. This influx of new talent, combined with a number of significant departures, signals a major creative refresh. It will be fascinating to see how the new cast members fit in and what kind of a show emerges from this season of change.
