Saturday Night Live’s entire cast returning for season 46

Saturday Night Live is bringing everyone back for season 46

Saturday Night Live will look very different in season 46 but that won’t have anything to do with the cast. The iconic sketch show announced that the entire cast will return for the upcoming season.

The announcement puts to rest any concern fans had about their favorite cast members not receiving a proper sendoff or bowing out after the shortened season 45. While the three Saturday Night Live at Home shows were entertaining, it was an unpredictable end to an unpredictable season.

Now we know that Kate McKinnon, Cecily Strong, Pete Davidson, and the rest of the cast will be back for at least one more turn in season 45. Featured player Ego Nwodim was also promoted to repertory player. There has been no news about additions to the cast, which seems unlikely given how the pandemic would restrict SNL scouts from seeing new talent around the country.

Saturday Night Live could still say goodbye to fan favorite performers after this season

The way season 45 ended likely influenced some cast members’ decisions on whether or not to return. Strong has hinted that she’s considered leaving in the past, McKinnon has a new opportunity with her Hulu series The Dropout as does Aidy Bryant with Shrill. Other cast members like Beck Bennett and Kyle Mooney have been around for a handful of seasons, crossing the mark when many SNL performers feel satisfied.

But nothing is quite like performing in Studio 8H and by all accounts, SNL will try to do that when it returns for season 46 on Oct. 3. If McKinnon, Strong, or anyone else wants to leave on a high note, doing so after season 46 provides a better chance than the shortened season 45. Add in the extra attention that comes to SNL during an election year and you can imagine there is a little extra buzz going into the new season.

Are you happy to hear Saturday Night Live is bringing back the entire cast? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.