Marcello Hernández is still having fun at Saturday Night Live—but with longtime castmate Bowen Yang officially stepping away, the conversation around who might be next has picked up real momentum.
While attending the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards, Hernández reflected on Yang’s exit after seven seasons on the NBC sketch institution. Speaking with E! News (via Deadline), Hernández framed Yang’s run in competitive terms, likening it to an elite athlete knowing when it’s time to move on.
“I look at it like sports,” Hernández said. “That’s a guy that put up numbers, consistent, always putting up—big sketches, and had a distinct voice and everybody loves him, and it’s for a reason.”
Hernández didn’t just praise Yang’s on-camera work. He also highlighted the effort that went into those performances, crediting Yang’s behind-the-scenes dedication. “He’s a hard worker,” Hernández added. “I saw him behind the scenes grinding every week and it’s a guy to learn from for sure.”
With several high-profile cast changes hitting the show—including Yang and fellow veteran Ego Nwodim—Hernández was asked whether his own future at Saturday Night Live was up in the air. His response was immediate and emphatic.
“I’m there. I’m there. I’m there,” he said. “I’m having fun. It’s a crazy job and you get to meet so many crazy people and I love it.”
Yang’s final episode aired on December 20, with Ariana Grande hosting and Cher serving as musical guest. His farewell unfolded during a sketch set in an airport lounge, where Yang played an employee working his last shift.
“I’m going to miss everything about this place,” Yang said during the sketch, later adding, “Any success I have after this will be thanks to this place.” He was joined by Grande, Cher—playing his boss—and Kenan Thompson, who offered him a warm send-off.
Offscreen, Yang also shared a personal message on social media, thanking Lorne Michaels and reflecting on lessons learned during his time on the show. Yang originally joined SNL as a writer in 2018 before becoming a breakout cast member and earning multiple Emmy nominations.