Overview

• Walker announced his exit on Instagram, writing that his three years on the show were sometimes really cool and sometimes toxic as hell.
• His departure is the first confirmed cast change ahead of Season 51, as Lorne Michaels has signaled a broader refresh with James Austin Johnson continuing as Donald Trump.
• Walker joined the series in 2022 as a featured player and was promoted to the repertory cast for the 50th season.
• He said he plans to travel to Japan and then pursue roles in prestige drama, naming Julianne Moore as a hoped-for collaborator.
• Coverage cites Saturday Night Live Network statistics indicating Walker received the least screen time during Season 50, with the new season set to premiere Oct. 4.