5 Shocking Details Behind Devon Walker’s SNL Exit: Why The Comedian Called It ‘Toxic’

Devon Walker’s time on Saturday Night Live (SNL) was a rapid-fire journey from featured player to main cast member, culminating in a highly public and surprising exit in late 2024. This article, updated on December 11, 2025, dives deep into the comedian’s career, his most memorable sketches, and the controversial comments he made about the legendary sketch comedy show after his departure. His story is a rare look behind the curtain of Studio 8H, revealing the intense pressure and environment that led to his decision to walk away.

The Texas native, known for his sharp stand-up and observational humor, was widely considered one of the show's rising stars. However, his decision to leave ahead of Season 51, after a promotion to the main cast earlier in 2024, stunned fans and industry insiders alike. We explore the full timeline of his tenure, his key contributions, and the candid reasons he gave for moving on from the biggest stage in comedy.

Devon Walker: Complete Comedian Biography and SNL Timeline

Devon Walker is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and writer who quickly established himself as a distinct voice in the New York comedy scene before joining the cast of Saturday Night Live.

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• Full Name: Devon Walker
• Date of Birth: February 13, 1991
• Age (as of 2025): 34
• Hometown: Austin, Texas
• Career Start: Began his comedy career in Austin around 2015.
• Move to NYC: Relocated to New York City in 2018 to pursue his comedy career.
• Pre-SNL Writing: Served as a writer for TV shows, including the animated series Big Mouth and the Freeform comedy Everything's Trash.
• SNL Debut: Joined the cast of Saturday Night Live as a featured player in 2022 for Season 48.
• Promotion: Promoted to the main repertory cast in 2024, starting with Season 50.
• SNL Departure: Announced his exit from the show in late 2024, ahead of Season 51, after three seasons.

Walker's journey from the Texas stand-up circuit to the iconic Studio 8H was marked by relentless touring and a unique comedic voice. His stand-up background, which is often described as sharp, smart, and fearless, was a key factor in his fast-track success on the sketch show.

The Rapid Rise and Unexpected Promotion to Main Cast (Season 50)

When Devon Walker joined Saturday Night Live in 2022, he was part of a major cast overhaul, alongside fellow newcomers Molly Kearney, Marcello Hernandez, and Michael Longfellow. He immediately stood out for his ability to handle both observational humor and character work.

During his time as a featured player, Walker quickly became a reliable presence, often appearing in sketches with other cast members like Andrew Dismukes. His contributions expanded significantly during Season 50 (2024–2025), which led to his promotion to the main repertory cast.

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This promotion signaled that Lorne Michaels and the show's producers saw him as a long-term star. Main cast status is a massive milestone, signifying job security and a greater opportunity for screen time and original characters.

Key SNL Sketches and Highlights

Walker’s comedic style, rooted in his stand-up, often shone brightest when he was able to deliver direct, observational commentary. He was particularly effective in "Weekend Update" segments, where he could leverage his natural stage presence.

• Weekend Update Segments: One memorable segment featured him sharing a bizarre take on his "Morning Routine," contrasting it with a fictional celebrity’s.
• "Police Station" Sketch: A popular sketch saw Walker playing a boyfriend describing his missing girlfriend to the police in a hilariously unhelpful and self-absorbed manner.
• "Buffalo Wild Wings" Sketch: He was also a prominent feature in sketches that captured the absurdity of modern life and pop culture, such as the "Buffalo Wild Wings" sketch in late 2024.
• Political Impressions: His ability to capture the mannerisms of politicians and public figures also began to emerge, showcasing the versatility required of an SNL star.

Despite appearing in over 150 sketches during his three seasons, his time was cut short by a decision that sent shockwaves through the comedy world.

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The Controversial Exit: Why Devon Walker Called SNL ‘Toxic’

The biggest story surrounding Devon Walker in late 2024 was not a sketch, but his surprising announcement that he would be leaving Saturday Night Live. The decision came shortly after his promotion, making it even more unusual.

Walker's departure was described as a "mutual decision," with both the comedian and the show being "ready to turn the page." However, subsequent interviews revealed a much more candid and critical view of the environment at 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

The 'Toxic' Environment Revelation

In a post-exit interview, Devon Walker used the word "toxic" to describe aspects of his experience at SNL. This term immediately ignited debate and drew comparisons to other former cast members who have spoken about the show’s grueling schedule and competitive atmosphere.

His comments highlighted the intense pressure cooker environment of the show. The process of writing, rewriting, and fighting to get a sketch on air, combined with the all-night work sessions, can be emotionally and mentally taxing.

Walker’s perspective is a crucial entity in the ongoing discussion about the mental health and well-being of performers on high-pressure shows. While he acknowledged the incredible opportunity provided by Lorne Michaels, his focus shifted to prioritizing his own creative path and mental clarity over the demands of the institution.

What’s Next for Devon Walker? Focusing on Stand-Up and Writing

Following his high-profile exit, Devon Walker has immediately refocused on his first love: stand-up comedy. His career trajectory mirrors that of many successful SNL alumni who leverage the show’s platform to launch major solo careers.

Walker is currently headlining comedy clubs and festivals across the country, allowing him to reconnect with his roots and develop new, longer-form material. This return to the stage is where his "sharp, fearless, and laugh-out-loud comedy" style truly thrives.

In addition to touring, it is highly anticipated that Walker will pursue more television and film writing opportunities. His experience writing for shows like Big Mouth and Everything's Trash proves his versatility beyond performing. Many industry observers predict he will soon announce a new development deal for a sitcom or a stand-up special, capitalizing on the heightened visibility from his SNL tenure and the buzz from his recent departure. Fans and comedy enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting his next move, confident that his unique voice will continue to shape the landscape of modern comedy.