Devon Walker Quits SNL After 3 Seasons, Calls It ‘Toxic’

Comedian Devon Walker announced he will say goodbye to Saturday Night Live (SNL), closing an important chapter on the distinguished show after a three-year term. Walker made the announcement, and unveiled a part of the hidden stress in working on one of television's most well-known live shows, to the public in a heartfelt social media post dated August 25, 2025. 
 
Referring to certain aspects of his SNL experience as "toxic as hell", Walker conveyed to his fans an uncharacteristic and candid peak behind the scenes of behind the reality of how rough it is for cast members off-screen. While alluding to the great moments and personal growth, Walker also revealed that the work environment is, is and can be difficult, and is dysfunctional.

Devon Walker’s Journey to SNL Stardom

In 2022, Devon Walker, a featured player on SNL, demonstrated his rapid wit, impressive sense of timing, and ability to impersonate well-known figures. By 2024 he was promoted into the main cast and quickly established himself as one of the performers of the show. 

Here are a few of his best impressions:

• Michael Strahan, former NFL player and television personality 
• Mayor Eric Adams, Mayor of the City of New York 
• Other various entertainment and political personalities 

These performances exhibited his range and began to build him an audience of SNL viewers.

What Really Happens Behind the SNL Curtain

In the post, Walker described his experience on SNL like a relationship with ups and downs. He vulnerably reflected on the personal struggles of living publicly performing to live expectations and scrutiny.

Walker also noted that he was thankful for all of the times he was able to collaborate and think creatively with his fellow cast members. But he was also honest about all the times they felt under pressure and tense and how that at times made the work environment less than favorable. 

This sort of honesty is somewhat of a rarity among cast members so Walker’s disclosure set off a big wave of support among fans who appreciated Walker's candor and honesty in an industry where someone's sincerity and truthfulness can be difficult to find.

What’s Next for Devon Walker After SNL

Walker’s departure is not simply an ending but, an opening into a new chapter. He has expressed desire visit Japan, experience new things, and contend for acting roles that are more serious than sketch comedy. 

His announcement also coincides with changes to SNL as a whole. Just days earlier, creator Lorne Michaels hinted at changes to the cast for the 51st season of the program scheduled to air on October 4, 2025. While Michaels has confirmed that talks are happening surrounding SNL's cast, he did makes one thing clear in his post—SNL's long history includes evolution and reinvention.

Fans and Celebs React to Devon Walker’s Shocking Exit

The announcement of Walker's exit has brought about a large reaction across social media. Fans commended him for placing priority on his mental health and career development, however many also celebrated some of his most memorable moments in his time at SNL.

Colleagues in the industry have also expressed their support, understanding the challenging nature of comedy on live television and applauding Walker's courage for being comfortable enough to speak candidly about his situation. His candor has allowed for discussions about the pressures performers face behind the camera, a topic that is rarely publicly talked about.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Devon Walker (@internetdevon)

The Impact of Devon Walker Leaving SNL

Walker’s exit demonstrates the difficulty in establishing and maintaining a career on a high-profile, long-running show like SNL, as well as the necessity of mental health, individual growth, and asking the question of when it's time to pursue new ventures. 

Still, while Walker has exited SNL, he leaves us with his legacy of memorable performances and representation of professionalism and self-awareness. With Friday's announcement Walker's fans and supporters are excited to see what's next, in terms of acting projects, and how Walker continues to grow creatively outside of the world of live sketch comedy.

Source(Image / Thumbnail): nypost.com