Overview

• Shannon told PEOPLE that replacing Michaels with Thompson is an “excellent idea” and praised Thompson as “so talented”
• She called Michaels “irreplaceable” and lauded his singular creative vision since founding the show in 1975
• Thompson has been a cast member since 2003, making him SNL’s longest-serving performer
• The veteran comedian has described himself as an ensemble-minded team player and voiced uncertainty about his tenure beyond the 50th season
• Speculation over showrunner succession and cast changes is intensifying as NBC prepares for Season 51 lineup and contract talks