Martin Herlihy is departing NBC’s 'Saturday Night Live' after a notable five-season run with the show.
Confirmed news from Deadline announced that Martin Herlihy is departing NBC’s iconic sketch series, Saturday Night Live, after a five-season tenure as both a writer and performer. Herlihy, who joined the show in 2021 as part of the Please Don't Destroy comedy troupe, has completed his run with the series.
Herlihy's departure is significant; he joined the Please Don't Destroy group to bring fresh comedic perspectives to the show. Throughout his time at SNL, he helped create popular skits that resonated with audiences, showcasing his talent alongside fellow troupe members Ben Marshall and John Higgins. Their collaboration resulted in memorable sketches that became fan favorites. When Marshall was promoted to a cast member and Higgins left to explore acting opportunities, Herlihy chose to focus on writing, making occasional appearances in sketches throughout the 51st season.
Despite the changes in the troupe, Herlihy maintained a presence in the show. He was instrumental in shaping the comedic landscape of SNL, and his exit marks the end of an era for the Please Don't Destroy group, which notably impacted the show's comedic style. Interestingly, Herlihy's family legacy adds a poignant note to his journey; his father, Tim Herlihy, also enjoyed a noteworthy career on SNL as a writer during the 1990s, contributing to various beloved sketches.
In light of Herlihy's departure, Ben Marshall is expected to assume a prominent role in Season 52, continuing as a featured player. Meanwhile, John Higgins is actively pursuing acting opportunities in various projects, including recurring roles on ABC's Scrubs and Apple TV's Stick.
Looking ahead, SNL is preparing for its 52nd season, with auditions and final cast adjustments underway. Currently, the only confirmed departure is Chloe Fineman after Season 51. The anticipated cast announcement is expected shortly before the show's September 26 premiere, setting the stage for new comedic dynamics.
While Martin Herlihy's future projects have not been formally announced at this time, many speculate that his departure provides myriad opportunities in both comedy writing and acting. Fans and industry watchers are eager to see how he will leverage his skills next, especially given the comedic legacy established by his family. This development opens doors for Herlihy to continue exploring his craft in new contexts, potentially influencing the next wave of comedic talent.
Herlihy's exit from Saturday Night Live underscores the evolving dynamics of the show’s cast and creative team. The impact of such departures is typically felt acutely in the upcoming seasons as new voices and perspectives integrate into the fabric of the long-running series. This transition is not just significant for SNL fans but also for those invested in the trajectories of young comedic talents like Herlihy, who have shaped the show in recent years.
For more updates on cast changes and upcoming episodes, keep an eye on Deadline and the latest news at Deadline.
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