We’ve had a lot to say about Saturday Night Live in the last year or two. It’s not shocking, really. The series recently wrapped its 51st season and started a UK spin-off. It remains an ever-evolving part of the television landscape. Part of that evolution comes from the constantly changing cast. Unless you’re Keenan Thompson, apparently. Still, other long-time cast members come and go. Now we’re saying goodbye to another one with Chloe Fineman.
Chloe Fineman is leaving ahead of season 52. She joined the cast in 2019 alongside Bowen Yang and Shane Gillis. Gillis was fired before starting, and Yang left midway through last season. Fineman’s departure after seven years is not unusual by normal metrics. That’s a more than respectable run on the show. She’s also leaving on her own terms, even if she didn’t say exactly why.
In her Instagram statement, Fineman said, “After 7 wonderful seasons at SNL I have decided it’s time for my next chapter. It’s cliche to say this but working at SNL has been the greatest privilege of my life. I still can’t really believe I got to be a part of it.” The rest of her statement didn’t mention anything about what her specific plans are. We can assume that, based on her talents, she’ll find a place to continue to shine.
What does this mean for Saturday Night Live in general, though? Last year, they lost Ego Nwodim and Heidi Gardner. The coming and going of cast members is normal, but they’re losing heavyweight talent without any huge stars coming back into the picture. Ashley Padilla has started to make a name for herself, and James Austin Johnson will continue to have work based on his Donald Trump impression alone. Still, they need a breakout star now more than ever. Chloe Fineman wasn’t quite a breakout, but she was more than reliable throughout her tenure.
We may hear about more departures and new hires between now and the start of season 52. When we find out more, we’ll be sure to let you know.
