The hallowed halls of Studio 8H at New York's Rockefeller Center are echoing with the fallout of a dramatic clear-out, as Saturday Night Live undergoes one of its most significant cast purges in recent memory.
Among those handed their marching orders was writer Devon Walker, who has since broken his silence on the abrupt dismissal with a characteristically dry and witty remark that has set the internet alight.
'A Mass Bloodbath': Walker's Viral Reaction
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Walker addressed his firing head-on, demonstrating the sharp comedic timing that landed him the job in the first place. His post succinctly captured the sheer scale of the behind-the-scenes upheaval ordered by showrunner Lorne Michaels.
"Well, it was fun while it lasted,' he began, before adding the punchline that resonated with fans and industry observers alike: "A lot of people got cut today. I was one of them. Mass bloodbath."
Scale of the SNL Shake-Up Becomes Clear
Walker's off-the-cuff remark of a 'mass bloodbath' proved to be more than just a joke. Reports confirm that a total of four cast members, including fan favourites Kenan Thompson and Heidi Gardner, were not offered new contracts.
More startlingly, the cull extended deep into the show's writing room, with a significant number of scribes also being let go. This double-pronged approach signals a major creative reset for the iconic sketch show as it plans for its 50th season.
Fan Outcry and Industry Reaction
The news has sent shockwaves through the show's dedicated fanbase, many of whom took to social media to express their dismay at the loss of specific talents. Walker's candid and humorous response to his own firing has been widely praised, seen as a testament to his professionalism and comedic spirit even in the face of professional disappointment.
The extensive nature of these cuts suggests NBC and executive producer Lorne Michaels are intent on a substantial creative overhaul, potentially making way for new faces and voices to reinvigorate the long-running programme as it approaches its landmark season.
