SNL Season 52: Writer/Performer Martin Herlihy Reportedly Departing

As anticipation builds for the upcoming 52nd season of NBC’s iconic sketch show Saturday Night Live (SNL), insiders report a notable departure within the creative team. Martin Herlihy, who has contributed as both a writer and featured performer, is reportedly stepping away from the series after five seasons.

Herlihy’s tenure on SNL included work both behind the scenes and in front of the camera, often collaborating within the comedy troupe Please Don't Destroy. This exit leaves Ben Marshall as the sole remaining member of the group actively involved with SNL, following John Higgins’ departure prior to Season 51.

Details surrounding Herlihy’s decision to leave have not been extensively disclosed, but the news arrives amid an otherwise quiet period as NBC has yet to announce the precise premiere date or the lineup of hosts and musical guests for the new season. The timing suggests this change could influence the creative dynamic as the show evolves.

The departure of a writer-performer of Herlihy’s experience marks a shift within the SNL ensemble that has been relatively stable in recent years. His contributions, particularly in crafting sketches that resonated with digital audiences, were part of the show’s broader success in adapting to online platforms.

This context is underscored by SNL’s recent release of Season 51’s most-watched digital content, including top cold opens, monologues, and live sketches. These compilations highlight the importance of writers and performers who can engage viewers across multiple formats, an area where Herlihy’s work had impact.

The transition comes at a pivotal moment for SNL as it continues to navigate the challenges of maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape. With the departure of familiar faces like Herlihy and Higgins, the show faces the task of integrating fresh talent while preserving its signature style.

While the exact start date and talent roster for Season 52 remain under wraps, the exit of Herlihy signals that the cast and crew will undergo further transformation. Fans and industry watchers are keenly awaiting official updates from NBC regarding the season’s direction and key players.

In the broader scope, departures such as Herlihy’s highlight the fluid nature of late-night television production, where shifts in personnel often coincide with shifts in creative focus. For a long-running institution like SNL, balancing continuity with innovation is essential to sustaining its cultural footprint.

As the show prepares to unveil its next chapter, the departure of a multifaceted contributor like Martin Herlihy serves as a reminder of the evolving talent landscape behind one of television’s most enduring comedy platforms. Additional details about the new season’s format and contributors are expected in the coming weeks.