Marcello Hernandez Confirms SNL Future Amid Cast Shake-Up
Marcello Hernandez commits to SNL after Bowen Yang exit

In a firm declaration of his commitment to the iconic sketch show, Marcello Hernandez has confirmed he has no plans to leave Saturday Night Live. The comedian made his intentions clear on the red carpet at the Critics Choice Awards, putting to rest any speculation about his future.

"I'm There": Hernandez's Firm Commitment

Speaking to reporters at the prestigious awards ceremony on Monday 5 January 2026, Hernandez offered a triple reassurance about his position. "I'm there, I'm there, I'm there," he stated emphatically. The cast member, who joined the NBC staple in 2022, went on to express his genuine enjoyment of the role, describing it as a "crazy job" he continues to relish.

Cast Changes Follow SNL's 50th Anniversary

Hernandez's comments arrive in the wake of significant cast movement, most notably the mid-season departure of fellow performer Bowen Yang. Yang signed off from the show after an impressive seven-year tenure, appearing in a final, emotional sketch alongside music superstars Ariana Grande and Cher.

This exit is part of broader changes instigated by the show's long-time executive producer, Lorne Michaels. Following the landmark 50th anniversary season, Michaels has been aiming to refresh the programme and "shake things up" with a revised line-up, ensuring the comedy institution remains dynamic for its next chapter.

Looking Ahead for SNL

With Hernandez now publicly anchoring his place in the ensemble, the show's future composition becomes clearer. His affirmation provides stability for the production as it navigates this period of transition under Michaels's stewardship. The commitment from a rising star like Hernandez suggests confidence in the creative direction post-anniversary, even as veteran cast members like Yang move on to new projects.

The evolution of the Saturday Night Live cast is a perennial topic for fans and critics alike, and these latest developments confirm that the show's tradition of renewal continues unabated into 2026.