Kenan Thompson Says He ‘Definitely’ Thinks About Leaving ‘SNL’: ‘It’s Gonna Suck’

Kenan Thompson, the longest-tenured performer on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), has expressed that he "definitely" thinks about leaving the show. In a recent interview with People, he acknowledged the emotional weight of such a decision, stating that saying goodbye would be challenging and that it “gonna suck.” Thompson has been a cast member since 2003, logging over two decades on the iconic sketch-comedy series. Thompson's reflections on potentially exiting SNL stem from the complexities of his experience on the show, which he described as having “so many layers to it.” He emphasized that his connection to SNL extends beyond what is visible on-screen, indicating that the decision to leave involves more than just a simple farewell. This suggests a deep emotional investment in his role and the show itself. In his comments, Thompson also hinted at the possibility of a sudden departure, saying, “I might have to just rip the band-aid and run out the back door.” This statement highlights the internal conflict he faces regarding his future on the show. As he continues to navigate his role, the speculation surrounding his eventual exit remains a topic of interest among fans and media alike. Thompson's tenure on SNL has made him a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, and his potential departure raises questions about the future of the show and its cast dynamics. His candid thoughts on leaving reflect the complexities faced by long-term performers in a high-profile environment like SNL.