Devon Walker Exits SNL, Reveals ‘Toxic As Hell’ Workplace Culture

Behind the laughter, a darker narrative unfolds: SNL’s Toxic Culture. Comedian Devon Walker, who joined Saturday Night Live (SNL) as a featured player in 2022 and was promoted to the repertory cast in 2024, has publicly announced his departure from the show after three seasons, citing a “toxic as hell” workplace culture and pervasive “dysfunction,” according to his Instagram post on Monday, August 25, 2025. Walker’s exit has ignited a new wave of scrutiny regarding the environment behind the scenes at the iconic comedy institution, adding to previous criticisms and raising questions about its future as it approaches its 51st season.

Devon Walker’s Departure and Allegations

Devon Walker, a 34-year-old Austin native, made the announcement of his departure via an Instagram post. He stated that his three years at SNL were “sometimes really cool” but also “sometimes toxic as hell” amidst “all of the dysfunction.” Walker likened jobs in the entertainment industry to “little marriages” that are often short-lived. In his Instagram post, Walker also thanked SNL writers Alex English and Gary Richardson, though he did not elaborate on the specifics of the alleged toxic environment.

While Walker clarified in a follow-up Instagram story that his departure was “good news” and “just time for me to do something different,” his candid remarks about the environment strongly suggest that the working conditions contributed to his decision to leave. He also expressed a desire to pursue new creative opportunities, specifically mentioning his ambition to star in a prestige drama, ideally with Julianne Moore, according to The Daily Beast.

Timing and Context

Walker’s announcement, made on August 25, 2025, comes ahead of SNL’s 51st season, scheduled to premiere on October 4. This timing places additional scrutiny on the show’s production, particularly given reports that SNL executive producer Lorne Michaels had promised a “major shake-up” for the upcoming season, as noted by Entertainment Weekly. The announcement has rippled through the entertainment industry, prompting discussion and speculation about the internal dynamics of the long-running comedy show.

SNL’s Workplace Culture Under Scrutiny

Walker’s exit isn’t an isolated incident. His departure follows that of other SNL staff members, including writers Celeste Yim and Rosebud Baker. These departures, coupled with Walker’s allegations, contribute to a growing conversation about SNL’s workplace culture, which has faced criticism in the past. The allegations implicitly involve the show’s production, including executive producer Lorne Michaels and the NBC network, though neither has issued a public statement addressing Walker’s claims.

Impact on SNL’s Future

Walker’s exit marks the first confirmed cast departure ahead of the new season and adds to a growing conversation about SNL’s workplace culture, which has faced criticism in the past. This situation highlights potential challenges within the long-running comedy institution as it heads into its landmark 51st season. CNN reports that the network is under increasing pressure to address the concerns raised by Walker and others to ensure a more positive and sustainable working environment for its cast and crew.

Walker’s Next Steps

Despite the circumstances surrounding his departure, Walker appears optimistic about his future. He plans to further discuss his experiences and future plans on his podcast, “My Favorite Lyrics.” This platform will allow him to provide more detailed insights into his time at SNL and his aspirations for his career moving forward. According to Rolling Out, Walker is actively pursuing opportunities in both comedy and drama, demonstrating his versatility and ambition as a performer.

Analyzing the Toxic Culture Claims

The specifics of the “toxic as hell” environment Walker describes remain largely undisclosed. However, the phrase suggests a combination of factors, potentially including intense pressure, long hours, creative conflicts, and interpersonal issues. Jobs in the entertainment industry are known for their demanding nature, but Walker’s remarks indicate that the challenges at SNL extended beyond the typical pressures of the industry. The Independent suggests that the high-stakes environment and constant competition for airtime may contribute to the reported toxicity.

Potential Contributing Factors

Several factors could contribute to a toxic work environment at SNL. The show’s demanding schedule, which requires writing, rehearsing, and performing a live show every week, can lead to burnout and stress. The competitive nature of the comedy world, combined with the pressure to consistently deliver high-quality content, can create a tense atmosphere. Additionally, the hierarchical structure of the show, with its reliance on established writers and performers, may create challenges for newer cast members and writers seeking to make their mark.

Industry Reactions and Implications

Walker’s allegations have sparked a broader conversation about workplace culture in the entertainment industry. Many comedians and writers have shared their own experiences with toxic environments, highlighting the need for greater accountability and support for those working in high-pressure creative fields. People magazine has compiled a series of reactions from industry professionals, noting a growing consensus that systemic changes are needed to address the issue of toxic workplaces.

Calls for Change

As a result of Walker’s revelations and similar accounts from others in the industry, there are increasing calls for change within SNL and other entertainment organizations. These calls include demands for more transparent and equitable hiring practices, better support systems for employees, and greater accountability for those who contribute to toxic work environments. According to RadarOnline, some advocacy groups are pushing for the establishment of industry-wide standards for workplace conduct to protect the well-being of performers and creators.

Conclusion

Devon Walker’s departure from SNL and his candid description of a “toxic as hell” workplace have cast a spotlight on the challenges within the iconic comedy institution. His exit, coupled with previous staff departures, underscores the need for a critical examination of SNL’s internal dynamics and a commitment to fostering a more positive and sustainable work environment. As the show prepares for its 51st season, the pressure is on for Lorne Michaels and NBC to address these concerns and ensure that SNL remains a vibrant and supportive platform for comedic talent. The future of SNL, and perhaps the entertainment industry as a whole, hinges on the willingness to confront and resolve these issues.