Strong is tied for the fourth-longest tenure in “SNL” history, currently in its eleventh season.
In a shocking announcement just hours before the season finale of “Saturday Night Live,” the show’s official social media accounts announced that it would be Cecily Strong’s final episode.
Sharing some clips and photos from her long years with the show, “SNL” captioned her slideshow on Instagram: “Tonight we’re sending one of the best to do it. We’re going to miss you, Cecily!”
The slide show opened with a handwritten message: “Well I miss you Cecily!”
Waiting for your permission to load Instagram media.
In his 11th season on the NBC staple, Strong is the second longest-running current cast member behind Kenan Thompson, and is tied for fourth on the all-time list with Fred Armisen, Al Franken (who came and went) and Kate. McKinnon, who left at the close of last season. Only Thompson (20 seasons), Darrell Hammond (14) and Seth Meyers (13) have stayed longer.
NBC
Steve Martin and Martin’s SNL Short Sketches Ranked: Half of the Best Holiday Episode Ever
See the story
Strong joined the show as a featured player alongside Aidy Bryant, who also left last spring, for Season 38 in 2012. She quickly established herself as one of the most versatile and talented players ever I had seen the show.
Strong was absent for the first few episodes of the current season while appearing in the Los Angeles production of “The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe.”
The actress will next be seen starring in the second season of the musical comedy series “Schmigadoon!” on Apple TV+. But “SNL” fans will get one last chance to enjoy his work as the series closes in 2022 with host Austin Butler and musical guest Lizzo tonight.
NBC