Former “Saturday Night Live” cast member Devon Walker addressed his controversial Instagram post calling the show “toxic” after announcing his departure last week. Walker was the first of several cast members to leave the NBC sketch comedy ahead of its 51st season. In his farewell message, he described the show as “really cool” but also “toxic as hell,” citing the presence of dysfunction within the group. He emphasized that while the show had its moments of excellence, the lack of transparency and support for cast members’ personal lives was a significant factor in his decision to leave.
Walker’s comments have sparked discussions about the working environment on the show. He explained that the process of letting go of cast members often left them in a state of uncertainty throughout the summer, with no clear communication about their job status. This lack of information made it difficult for cast members to make important life decisions, such as starting a family or buying a home. Walker noted that while his own situation was not one of being left in the dark, he had known of other instances where cast members were placed in such a difficult position. He called for more transparency and a more humane approach to handling cast departures, suggesting that the show’s current practices could benefit from a more empathetic understanding of its cast members’ personal circumstances.
Despite his criticisms, Walker expressed that his departure from the show was a mutual decision between him and the producers, not a matter of being fired or quitting. He acknowledged the challenges of the industry but emphasized the need for better communication and support for cast members who rely heavily on their jobs. Walker highlighted the emotional and financial stakes involved in their work, noting that not everyone on the show is making millions of dollars and that people have responsibilities beyond their careers. He concluded by hoping that the show’s future would include a more thoughtful and considerate approach to managing its cast’s employment and well-being.