Saturday Night Live: Chris Redd latest cast member to bow out ahead of new season

Saturday Night Live continues to announce changes ahead of season 48. Cast member Chris Redd will not return, ending his run on SNL.

On Sept. 19, Redd revealed that he would not be back for the new season of Saturday Night Live (via Deadline). The comedian first joined the show in season 43 and spent five years as a cast member.

Redd expressed his gratitude to SNL and Lorne Michaels in a statement earlier this week:

"Being a part of SNL has been the experience of a lifetime. Five years ago, I walked into 30 Rock knowing that this was an amazing opportunity for growth. Now, with friends who have become family and memories I will cherish forever, I’m grateful to Lorne Michaels and to the entire SNL organization. From the bottom of my heart, I can’t thank you all enough."

Redd leaves on something of a high note as SNL recently picked up another Primetime Emmy Award. For his part, Redd became a reliable source of laughs last season, primarily through his rap parodies and celebrity impressions including Kanye West.

Chris Redd is the latest change at Saturday Night Live

We’re only a few weeks out from the Saturday Night Live season 48 premiere. Chris Redd’s departure marks the latest major change for the show ahead of the new season.

Pete Davidson, Kate McKinnon, Aidy Bryant, and Kyle Mooney all made it known that the season 47 finale would be their last episodes. During the summer, Melissa Villasenor, Alex Moffat, and Aristotle Athari were revealed to be no longer with the cast.

Behind the scenes, Lindsey Shookus also departed Saturday Night Live. The longtime producer was behind booking hosts and discovering new talent for the cast.

The new season of Saturday Night Live premiers on October 1 with host Miles Teller and musical guest Kendrick Lamar.

Are you sad to see Chris Redd leave the cast? What was your favorite sketch featuring Redd? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.