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4h ago

Lorne Michaels Says Major SNL Cast Shakeup Is Days Away for Season 51

He delayed turnover during the 50th season to keep attention on the anniversary, citing the election.

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 14: Lorne Michaels attends the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert at Radio City Music Hall on February 14, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by TheStewartofNY/WireImage)
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Overview

  • Michaels told Puck News the roster changes will be announced "in a week or so," with final decisions expected in early September.
  • Several current cast members are expected to exit, though no specific departures have been named.
  • James Austin Johnson will continue portraying President Donald Trump.
  • Auditions for new talent were held recently, including tryouts in Studio 8H after scouting in Los Angeles and Chicago.
  • Season 51 premieres Oct. 4 at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, with Michaels noting more colleagues now weigh in on casting as he retains final say.