Is Michael Che leaving Saturday Night Live after Season 50? Here’s What We Know

As Saturday Night Live wraps up its landmark 50th season, fans are celebrating the show’s historic run — but also wondering if one of its most recognizable faces is preparing to say goodbye. Rumors are swirling that Michael Che, the co-anchor of Weekend Update, may be leaving SNL after Season 50.

So is the longtime comedian actually stepping down? Or is this just another expertly delivered joke? Here’s where things stand.

What Michael Che Said About His Exit

During a February 2025 stand-up set at the University of Rochester, the 41-year-old comedian made what sounded like a heartfelt announcement:

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“This is my last season. I’m not coming back, don’t worry. I’m done, it’s over for me. It’s been so much fun. It’s a little emotional, it’s bittersweet.”

That single moment ignited a frenzy online, with fans and entertainment outlets alike questioning whether Che was being serious — or just playing with the audience.

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This Isn’t the First Time He’s Teased a Departure

Michael Che has a history of trolling fans about his exit from SNL.

In 2022, he said during a comedy show in Minneapolis that it would be his “last year” on the show. The quote was widely circulated until Che clarified on Instagram:

“To comedy fans: please stop telling reporters everything you hear at a comedy show. You’re spoiling the trick.”

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It was a clever response, and typical of Che’s style — mixing honesty with misdirection, leaving fans wondering where the truth lies.

A Conflicted Relationship with the Show

In a New York Times interview, Che spoke candidly about his time on SNL and hinted at a slow-burning desire to move on.

“My head has been at leaving for the past five seasons,” he admitted. “I do think that I’ve been here longer than I’ll be here. This show is built for younger voices.”

He went on to say that at some point, audiences may want “something more exciting to watch at the halfway mark of the show than me and dumb [Colin] Jost.”

Despite the humor, it’s clear that Che has been seriously contemplating his future on the show for a while.

When Did Michael Che Join SNL?

Michael Che joined Saturday Night Live in 2014, debuting as co-anchor of Weekend Update alongside Colin Jost in Season 40.

He made history as the first Black co-anchor in the segment’s history and quickly became known for his dry wit, sharp political commentary, and signature on-air chemistry with Jost.

Over the years, Che has also contributed as a writer and producer, even serving as co-head writer for several seasons — further solidifying his influence behind the scenes.

What Happens If He Leaves?

While nothing has been officially confirmed by NBC or SNL producers, Che’s potential exit would mark the end of an era. His banter with Jost has become one of the most recognizable features of the modern Weekend Update desk.

Should he step down, SNL will likely bring in a younger voice, in line with the show’s ever-evolving tone and audience expectations. Whether Jost would continue solo or be paired with a new co-host is still unknown.

Fans React to the Possibility

Fan reactions online have been a mix of sadness, understanding, and curiosity:

“Michael Che leaving SNL would be the end of the best Weekend Update duo ever.”
“He’s been dropping hints for years. I think this might actually be it.”
“He’s just trolling us again. Watch him be back for Season 51.”

For now, audiences will have to wait and see if Che’s remarks are part of another stand-up bit — or his official goodbye to Studio 8H.