Ego Nwodim, who’s been a part of the Saturday Night Live (SNL) family since 2018 and officially joined the cast in 2022, seems to have really hit her stride on the iconic sketch show. Known for her quick wit and infectious charm, Nwodim has developed a special rapport with the show’s creator and producer, Lorne Michaels. In fact, she’s even had a moment where her comfort level was almost too much to handle.
During a recent Interview Rorschach Test Q&A, when asked about Lorne Michaels, Nwodim couldn’t help but share a humorous anecdote. “One time I slipped up and called him Daddy Lorne to his face,” she confessed with a laugh. It’s a testament to the kind of relaxed and genuine relationship she has with the legendary producer.
Nwodim also described Michaels as "a curious man" with a knack for charming everyone around him. "I get flowers from him for my birthday every year," she shared. "The man knows how to charm a woman. I know people are scared of him, but ain’t nothing to be scared of." It’s clear that despite Michaels’ sometimes intimidating reputation, he’s got a softer side that endears him to those who work with him.
For those unfamiliar, Lorne Michaels has been at the helm of SNL since it first aired in 1975. Over the decades, the show has featured some of the biggest names in comedy, from the late greats like Gilda Radner and John Belushi to a host of others who have graced the stage. There’s been a lot of buzz lately about whether Michaels might step down as part of the show’s 50th season, which is set to kick off in September.
Speculation about Michaels’ retirement has been swirling for a while, especially as the milestone season approaches. In January, Michaels spoke with Entertainment Tonight about his plans. Despite the swirling rumors, he made it clear that he wasn’t planning to leave just yet. “We’re doing the 50th anniversary show in February of ’25,” Michaels said, “so I will definitely be there for that, and definitely be there until that, and sometime before that we’ll figure out what we’re gonna do.”
While Michaels didn’t completely dismiss the idea of stepping down, he was open to the possibility of someone like former cast member Tina Fey taking over. He acknowledged that while Fey could be a great choice, there are others who could also fit the bill. It’s a huge decision and one that’s likely to be a topic of much discussion as the 50th season unfolds.
In addition to the excitement surrounding Michaels and his future, there’s also some turnover among the cast. This season, fan favorites Molly Kearney and Punkie Johnson have announced their departure from the show. However, it’s not all bad news—Ego Nwodim will continue to bring her unique energy and humor to SNL, including her beloved character Lisa from Temecula.
Here’s a quick rundown of what’s been happening and what to expect:
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Lorne Michaels’ Legacy: Michaels has been a cornerstone of SNL since its inception, and his influence is undeniable. As speculation about his retirement continues, fans are eagerly awaiting news about who might take over his role.
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Ego Nwodim’s Role: Nwodim, who has been a standout cast member since her official debut, shares a special connection with Michaels and continues to shine on the show. Her playful anecdotes and vibrant personality make her a fan favorite.
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Upcoming Milestones: SNL is gearing up for its 50th season, a major milestone for the show. Michaels has committed to being a part of the 50th anniversary celebrations in February 2025, ensuring that he will be involved in marking this historic occasion.
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Cast Changes: With Molly Kearney and Punkie Johnson moving on, there will be new dynamics within the cast. Fortunately, Nwodim’s continued presence will add stability and excitement to the show.
As SNL navigates this period of change and celebration, fans can look forward to a season filled with nostalgia, fresh talent, and, of course, the signature humor that has made the show a staple of American television for decades. Whether Lorne Michaels will continue to be a part of that future remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: his impact on the show and its cast will be felt for years to come.
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