Kenan Thompson is teasing the possibility of casting changes for the next season of Saturday Night Live.
Following the conclusion of the iconic sketch comedy show’s 50th season on May 17 — hosted by Scarlett Johansson with musical guest Bad Bunny — the 47-year-old comedian and longtime SNL cast member called the season’s end “bittersweet” in an interview with Page Six.
“Especially this year where it feels like there’s maybe, possibly, a lot of change next year,” Thompson said. “You want everyone to stay forever, knowing that people may be making decisions this summer…it’s always like you want your kids to stay young.”
While NBC has not confirmed any casting changes for season 51, rumors of a possible shake-up have been circulating online, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Thompson, who joined the show in 2003 during season 29, revealed that he has not yet signed a contract for the upcoming season.
“You just never know what the future holds,” he told Page Six. “I don’t want to be in the way of someone else or I don’t want to be the stale old man riding the same thing. That doesn’t really happen that much at SNL but there’s no guarantees, I guess.”
SNL is unlikely to confirm any cast departures or additions until closer to the premiere of season 51 this fall, THR reports. Alongside Thompson, Michael Che, Colin Jost, Mikey Day, Heidi Gardner and Ego Nwodim have been with the show for seven or more seasons.
In SNL‘s season 50 finale, Johansson jokingly hinted at a possible cast departure during her musical monologue, telling cast member Sarah Sherman, “We’re all gonna miss you next year,” A visibly surprised Sherman responded, “Wait, what? Did you guys hear something or…?” The moment was not referenced again in the episode.
