What did Punkie Johnson say about the recent 'SNL' exits? Alum reacts to cast member departures

Punkie Johnson has spoken out as Saturday Night Live enters a period of significant transition on August 29, 2025, with the show preparing for its 51st season. Multiple cast members and writers have recently announced departures, prompting speculation about the direction the long-running series will take.

Johnson, who was part of the cast from 2020 to 2024, responded on social media with messages that blended surprise and reassurance for her former colleagues, signaling that she and others close to the show are feeling the impact of these changes. Her posts addressed several individuals in personal ways.

She reacted to Michael Longfellow’s departure with a message expressing disbelief and affection, and she offered supportive comments to Devon Walker. Emil Wakim, whose exit after only one season was unexpected for many, also received an encouraging note from Johnson, as did writer Rosebud Baker.

When longtime cast member Heidi Gardner announced her exit after eight seasons, Punkie Johnson’s response reflected both admiration and a sense of loss.

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Shock and Support for Recent Departures

Punkie Johnson’s responses to each person leaving were personal and informal, combining disbelief, affection, and a sense of camaraderie.

To Michael Longfellow, who departed after three seasons, she wrote:

“wtf is happening… This is like the departed… My sexy handsome work husband… I love you so much… I’ll call you… Welcome back outside baby…. I’ll see you out here soon.”

About Devon Walker, also exiting after three seasons, she commented:

“Welcome back Dev. It’s fun outside baby… love u.”

To Emil Wakim, who left after just one season, she wrote:

“You beautiful man… this is a shocker to us all I’m sure… We should stand at the doors of 30 Rock and act a fool for you… Keep your head up baby… Let’s play outside.. it’s been fun.”

To Rosebud Baker, who will not return as a writer, she said:

“Rosebud for life… Welcome back to outside stank… we having a good time.”

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A Heartfelt Goodbye to a Longtime Cast Member

Punkie Johnson’s reaction to Heidi Gardner’s exit after eight seasons was emotional and full of respect:

“Ahhhhhh Lawd not my Heidi… This probly the biggest surprise of this ‘shake up’… Heidi you are my shining star… You had a great run and I admire everything about you. CONGRATULATIONS HEIDI… YOU ARE AN SNL LEGEND FOR LIFE… See you outside.”

That message captured both admiration for Gardner’s work and the personal effect her departure had on those who worked with her.

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Why Punkie Johnson’s Perspective Carries Weight?

Punkie Johnson’s responses feel especially meaningful because she understands the experience of exiting the show. She left SNL before its 50th season and has said that her choice to go was mutual and friendly.

She described the exit as not fitting her vibe: “Mutually, we just understood that it was not my zone.” She emphasized that there was no resentment and that relationships remain intact: “It’s no bridges burnt.”

Her own experience of being on the inside and then stepping away adds empathy to how she speaks about others leaving.

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Punkie Johnson’s social media posts provide a rare, intimate glimpse into how someone inside SNL processes cast departures. With a mix of surprise, playful humor, and heartfelt gratitude, her words reveal the genuine bonds that shape the show beyond the spotlight. As the new season nears, with at least one cast member confirmed to return, her reflections underscore the emotional weight of these transitions for those living them.