Marcello Hernández reveals that he will continue on Saturday Night Live in season 51 in 2026 By Beatriz
4 min read
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Marcello Hernández reassured fans by confirming that he remains in the cast ofSaturday Night Livefor the continuation of season 51. The comedian made the statements during the red carpet at Critics Choice Awards, held on January 4, 2026, at Estados Unidos.
He responded directly to speculation about a possible departure, repeatedly stating that he remains with the program. Hernández highlighted that he is having fun with the work and appreciates the opportunity to meet different personalities in the show environment.
The statements come at a time of significant changes in the SNL cast. Vários members left the program throughout 2025 and at the beginning of 2026, which generated uncertainty about the composition of the team.
Statements in Critics Choice Awards
Marcello Hernández participated in the awards as presenter of a category. Ele spoke to journalists on the red carpet and reinforced his commitment to Saturday Night Live.
The 28-year-old actor described the job as intense but rewarding. Ele mentioned the constant contact with famous figures and the pleasure in being part of the weekly creative process.
- Recurring characters like Domingo, the Latin seducer.
- Grant, in the painting about unlikely couples.
- Imitation of Don Francisco, presenter of Sábado Gigante.
These roles contributed to her rapid popularity among the public.
Praise for Bowen Yang
Hernández commented on the recent departure of Bowen Yang, who left SNL in December 2025 after six seasons as a member of the main cast. Yang announced the decision unexpectedly, just before the Christmas episode.
The comedian compared Yang to a consistent athlete, always delivering top-notch sketches. Ele emphasized his colleague’s distinctive voice and behind-the-scenes effort, seeing him as an example to follow.
Bowen Yang joined the show as a writer in 2018 and was promoted to the cast in 2019.
Recent SNL cast changes
Season 51 of Saturday Night Live began with several departures announced before the premiere in October 2025. Integrantes like Heidi Gardner, Ego Nwodim, Michael Longfellow, Emil Wakim and
These changes followed the celebration of the program’s 50th anniversary, which maintained stability in the previous cast. Producer Lorne Michaels indicated the need for renewal to maintain the freshness of the content.
The show incorporated new talents, including Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall, Kam Patterson and Veronika Slowikowska as featured players. Apesar of the losses, veterans like Kenan Thompson and Chloe Fineman remain.
Yang’s departure mid-season is rare and adds another chapter to the cast’s transformations in 2025 and 2026.
Trajectory of Marcello Hernández
Hernández joined SNL in 2022, during season 48. Ele promoted to main member before season 50, in 2024.
Born in Miami, of Cuban and Dominican origin, the comedian rose to prominence with viral sketches. Sua imitation of Don Francisco received praise from the original presenter himself.
In addition to SNL, Hernández is preparing the launch of his stand-up special on Netflix, titled American Boy, scheduled for January 7, 2026.
New members of the season
The cast renewal brought five new featured players for season 51.
- Tommy Brennan → Minnesota stand-up comedian, with appearances on late night shows.
- Jeremy Culhane → improvisation performer with theater experience.
- Ben Marshall → former SNL writer and member of the trio Please Don’t Destroy.
- Kam Patterson → stand-up known for podcasts and specials.
- Veronika Slowikowska → creator of viral content on social media.
These additions aim to balance outputs and inject new energy into the program.
Program continuity
Saturday Night Live continues its tradition of constant adaptation. Season 51 continues with weekly episodes, featuring varied hosts and musical guests.
The permanence of Hernández represents stability amidst change. Ele consolidates itself as one of the highlights of the younger generation of the cast.
The program returns after seasonal breaks, with the next episode scheduled for January 2026. Fans follow the evolution of the cast and sketches.
Side projects of former members
Several of those who left SNL in 2025 move on to individual careers. Ego Nwodim, for example, nominated for awards for roles in comedies.
Bowen Yang is involved in films such as the Wicked sequel and popular podcasts. Heidi Gardner explores opportunities in acting and stand-up.
These transitions are common for former members of the show, who often launch specials or series of their own.
