Devon Walker is feeling sanguine about his recent exit from Saturday Night Live (SNL). In an Instagram announcement, he candidly described the show as potentially “toxic as hell,” yet when speaking to Rolling Stone, he emphasized his gratitude for the invaluable experience he gained during his time there. Walker aims to remind fans that while the off-season shakeup at SNL may seem dramatic, it’s not as serious as it appears. In response to fans mourning the changes — including the departures of fellow cast members Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, and Emil Wakim — Walker humorously noted on X, “Y’all acting like we died lol we just getting different jobs.”
Walker revealed to Rolling Stone that his departure was a mutual decision between him and SNL's management, stating, “we decided together that it was time to go our separate ways.” Despite the bittersweet nature of leaving such an iconic show, Walker acknowledged how his three-year tenure at Studio 8H profoundly transformed his life. He gained insights into the entertainment industry that most aspiring comedians could only dream of, including sage advice from comedy legends like Adam Sandler and a lasting vote of confidence from the show's creator, Lorne Michaels.
One of Walker’s fondest memories from SNL involves collaborating with his best friends, former SNL writers Gary Richardson and Alex English. Prior to joining SNL, the trio ran the Dad comedy show at New York’s Jane Hotel. Walker expressed deep appreciation for the familial atmosphere he found while working with Richardson and English during his first two seasons. “You spend so much time together, we’re seeing each other way more than we’re seeing our families,” Walker shared, highlighting the strong bonds formed within the SNL cast.
In a recent interview, Walker discussed the pervasive self-doubt that many cast members experience while working on SNL. He remarked, “Self-doubt is part of any creative process,” particularly in such a high-stakes environment where newcomers often feel like they are stepping into a world dominated by seasoned experts. Walker recalled his initial feelings of insecurity when he first auditioned for the show, having only done sketch comedy once before. “You’re trying to find your way in this field that’s so challenging and so competitive,” he noted.
To combat self-doubt, Walker emphasized the importance of diving straight into the work. He mentioned a particular Weekend Update feature he co-wrote for NBA star Draymond Green, which came together in just one day, showcasing the intense pressure that often drives creativity on the show. “The high pressure of the environment almost forces you to push past the doubt,” he explained.
When asked if he left SNL by choice, Walker responded affirmatively. He articulated that both he and the show recognized it was time to move on, stating, “I think I felt ready to leave the show, and I think the show felt ready to leave me.” This transition marks a significant life change for Walker, allowing him to pursue new opportunities and explore different facets of his career.
Walker also reflected on the significance of mentorship during his time at SNL, particularly mentioning Adam Sandler’s advice to continue performing during the off-season to maintain a sense of freedom and authenticity in his craft. “Make sure you’re performing in the way that feels the most free to you,” Sandler advised, emphasizing the need for artists to stay true to their roots.
As a free agent now, Walker is eager to collaborate with Richardson and English once again. He appreciates their shared backgrounds and unique perspectives, noting that despite their different upbringings, they all share a passion for comedy and creativity. Walker believes that the industry could benefit from more individuals with “good taste,” which he defines as intentionality in artistic choices.
Walker expressed concern about the current media landscape, where the pressure to produce content quickly can compromise artistic integrity. He pointed out that many creators lose sight of intentionality due to the demands of social media and audience expectations. “When you’re thinking about your creative output that way, you lose something,” he warned.
With his time at SNL now behind him, Walker is focused on expanding his creative horizons. He expressed interest in working on projects that resonate with him, mentioning shows like HBO's Industry as a potential avenue for his comedic talents. He jokingly stated, “If Lionel Boyce needs a brother on The Bear, I’ve been Black and sad for years. I got all of that really locked down.” Walker is determined to explore new opportunities, aiming to tell diverse stories within the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, Devon Walker’s departure from Saturday Night Live marks a new chapter in his career. With gratitude for his experiences and excitement for the future, he is poised to make significant contributions to the world of comedy and beyond.
