Emil Wakim to Exit 'Saturday Night Live' Ahead of Season 21

Emil Wakim is leaving Saturday Night Live.

The 27-year-old comedian, who was a featured player on the NBC sketch comedy series for one season, is leaving ahead of the premiere of Season 51.

He confirmed the news himself in a statement on social media on Wednesday (August 27).

Keep reading to find out more…

“I won’t be returning to SNL next year. It was a gut punch of a call to get, but I’m so grateful for my time there,” he wrote.

“i was at six flags celebrating my friends 36th birthday and went on a really emotional walk through bugs bunny park and stared out across daffy duck lake thinking about life. every time i scanned into the building i would think how insane it is to get to work there. it was the most terrifying, thrilling, and rewarding experience of my life and i will miss it dearly and all the brilliant people that work there that made it feel like a home. thank u to lorne for taking a chance on me and changing my life,” he continued.

“i was so lucky to bring some of myself in there and say things i believed in and i’m excited for whatever chapter comes next. here’s to making more art without compromise. onwards and upwards. love u, emil ♥️”

He’s not the only one who is leaving ahead of the next season premiere. Find out who is leaving after three seasons on the show.

Find out who is definitely coming back for Season 51.