Is Lorne Michaels departing from Saturday Night Live (SNL)? Speculation surrounding his future with the iconic show has circulated for years, particularly as SNL approaches a significant milestone. Questions linger about the show’s leadership: Will Michaels remain at the helm, or is a transition on the horizon?
Here’s an update on the latest developments regarding Michaels and what they signify for SNL moving forward.
Is Lorne Michaels leaving SNL?
Lorne Michaels is confirmed to continue his role with Saturday Night Live (SNL).
Despite earlier rumors suggesting he might retire after Season 50, Michaels has announced his commitment to at least Season 51, stating, “As long as it’s important and I can be useful, I’ll stay… There’s no immediate plan.”
Michaels, the creator of SNL since its inception in 1975, had previously indicated a potential exit in 2020, but as the landmark season approached, he reassured fans of his enthusiasm for the show. Weekend Update co-anchor Colin Jost emphasized, “No one who works there thinks he’s leaving,” while Seth Meyers dismissed the speculation, referring to it as a “false narrative.”
Recent rumors regarding Michaels’ exit may have been sparked by his absence from a recent episode. However, there are no substantiated reports indicating a departure; his absence reflects a leadership approach that emphasizes delegation while maintaining overall responsibility.
As SNL prepares for its 51st season in the fall of 2025, an official cast list has yet to be released, but many familiar faces from Season 50 are likely to return. The show’s legacy continues, with Michaels steering its direction to ensure continuity and stability. While linear ratings have faced challenges, SNL remains a significant comedic powerhouse, boasting billions of social media views and strong cultural influence.
Michaels has acknowledged a shift towards relying on his team more, yet he remains the primary decision-maker. He affirmed the need for clear direction, stating, “You really need someone to say, ‘This is what we’re doing.’” Currently, there are no confirmed plans for his departure, and the speculation surrounding it appears to be unsubstantiated.
