The news has come, a bittersweet farewell to a force of nature who has graced our Saturday nights for seven incredible seasons. Ego Nwodim has announced her departure from Saturday Night Live, and while we wish her the best on her next endeavors, we must first celebrate the legacy she leaves behind.
Ego Nwodim, born in Baltimore, Maryland, is a Nigerian-American comedian and actress who has made an indelible mark on the world of comedy. A graduate of the University of Southern California with a degree in biology, she chose to follow her true passion, honing her comedic craft at the Upright Citizens Brigade in Los Angeles. She was a regular performer there, even creating her own one-woman show titled “Great Black Women and Then There’s Me.” Her talent was recognized early, as she was named one of the “New Faces” at the Just for Laughs festival in 2016.
Her journey led her to Studio 8H in 2018, where she joined the cast of Saturday Night Live. Over her seven-season tenure, Ego became a standout performer, beloved for her incredible comedic range and the fully realized characters she brought to life. She was promoted to a repertory player in 2020. Her time on the show was defined by memorable appearances that consistently broke through and became fan favorites. Who can forget the chaos and laughter of “Lisa from Temecula,” or the hilarious audacity of “Proud Parents”? Her “Weekend Update” appearances as the stand-up comic “Miss Eggy” were also a testament to her unique voice and ability to command a stage.
Ego’s presence on the show was also a powerful reflection of her Nigerian heritage. As a second-generation Nigerian-American, she often drew from her own life experiences to create characters and sketches that resonated with millions. Her work often spoke to the experience of a Black woman in America, and she has spoken about the responsibility she felt to do the job well, for those who would come after her. It is this depth, this ability to infuse her comedy with authenticity and heart, that made her a true icon.
Beyond the world of SNL, Ego has an impressive list of accomplishments. She has appeared in films like Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile and Players, and television shows such as Poker Face and Mr. Throwback. She is also set to appear in the upcoming Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie. This year, she also co-hosted Vogue’s 2025 Met Gala livestream and launched her podcast, “Thank You, Dad.”
As Ego Nwodim embarks on the next chapter of her career, we extend our deepest gratitude for the laughter, the characters, and the unforgettable moments she gave us on Saturday Night Live. Her light shines brightly, and we have no doubt that she will continue to achieve incredible success and bring joy to audiences for years to come. The party may be over, but the memories will last a lifetime. Good night, Ego, and good luck.