Overview of the 2022 Saturday Night Live Season
The 2021–2022 television season saw Saturday Night Live begin its 47th season in October 2021 and conclude in May 2022, with the cast and structure broadly aligning with the documented roster for SNL season 47. This period represents a transitional phase on the show, with changes in cast and writing staff that shape the program’s current identity. The following provides a verified breakdown of the cast, updates, and recurring roles during this timeframe.
Verified Cast Roster for 2022
Below is a concise overview of the primary cast and supporting personnel widely reported for SNL in 2022. These names reflect the lineup featured through season 47, with notes on roles such as Weekend Update co-anchors and musical guests.
Featured Cast and Roles
| Cast Member | Role / Notable Segment in 2022 | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Colin Jost | Weekend Update co-anchor (with Michael Che) | Show credits |
| Michael Che | Weekend Update co-anchor (with Colin Jost) | Show credits |
| Kate McKinnon | Cast member and recurring character work | Show credits |
| Kyle Mooney | Cast member and impressions | Show credits |
| Beck Bennett | Cast member through season 47 | Show credits |
| Ego Nwodim | Cast member through season 47 | Show credits |
| Heidi Gardner | Cast member through season 47 | Show credits |
| Chris Redd | Cast member through season 47 | Show credits |
| Alex Moffat | Cast member through season 47 | Show credits |
| Melissa Villaseñor | Cast member through season 47 | Show credits |
Notable Cast Changes Leading Into and During 2022
The 2022 period reflected a shift in personnel from earlier years. Certain cast members who had appeared in prior seasons moved on, while others continued their roles. Understanding these transitions helps distinguish lasting lineup elements from temporary changes.
Departures and Milestone Moments
- Beck Bennett, who joined in 2013, exited after the 2021–2022 season.
- Alex Moffat, a cast member since 2016, also departed after season 47.
- Melissa Villaseñor, who had been part of the ensemble since 2016, left following the same season.
- Heidi Gardner and Kyle Mooney remained core cast members heading into 2023.
Weekend Update and On-Air Responsibilities
Weekend Update remains a central segment of SNL, with co-anchors providing satirical commentary on current events. In 2022, the established pairing of Colin Jost and Michael Che continued their on-air chemistry, balancing headlines, political satire, and audience interactions.
Impressions and Character Work in the 2022 Season
Cast members regularly perform impressions of public figures and develop original characters. During season 47, notable impressions included political figures, celebrities, and recurring original bits that resonated with viewers. The breadth of work across the cast helps sustain the show’s relevance week to week.
Hires, Training, and Writing Staff Context
While the 20AN-22 season did not introduce new cast members midyear, the show’s writing room remained active in shaping material. Training for new performers and the integration of writing staff updates contribute to the long-term consistency of the show’s output. These behind-the-scenes elements are critical to maintaining the quality of the cast’s performances.
Comparison to Prior and Subsequent Seasons
Positioned between earlier seasons with notable cast additions and later adjustments, 2022 represents a stabilization phase. The departures of Bennett, Moffat, and Villaseñor marked the end of an era, while the continuity provided by Jost, Che, McKinnon, Mooney, Nwodim, and Gardner offered stability. This balance helps define SNL’s evolution without drastic shifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who were the Weekend Update co-anchors in 2022? Colin Jost and Michael Che served as the Update anchors during the 2021–2022 season.
- Were there any midseason cast changes in 2022? No, the roster remained consistent through season 47, with changes occurring after the season concluded.
- Which cast members departed after season 47? Beck Bennett, Alex Moffat, and Melissa Villaseñor all exited after the 2021–2022 season.
- Did any cast members return as guests in 2022? Former cast members occasionally made guest appearances, though the core cast remained focused on ongoing material.