Punkie Johnson will not be returning to “Saturday Night Live” for its upcoming 50th season, according to a video announcement posted Thursday.
Johnson, 39, whose real name is Jessica Williams, has been with the show for the past four years.
She originally shared the news of her departure during a comedy show in Brooklyn on Wednesday, reported The Hollywood Reporter. On Thursday, she shared the news with the internet, saying, “After four seasons, I will not be returning to ‘SNL’ for the 50th.”
“It’s no bad blood, it’s no bridges burnt, it’s no hard feelings,” she continued. “’SNL’ was a dream I didn’t even know I could achieve. I was part of one of the most elite institutions in comedy, and I’m so grateful for it… but my time there has come to an end.”
She added that she first broke the news to her audience members at her “Punkie Johnson and Friends” comedy show at Union Hall, when someone asked what she was looking forward to next season.
“Oh, I ain’t comin’ back,” she candidly replied.
She did not provide any additional details on what led to her departure.
During her time on the sketch comedy show, Johnson made her mark with memorable impressions of influential figures such as Vice President Kamala Harris, Nicki Minaj, Harriet Tubman, Gayle King, Ice Spice and Queen Latifah.
After joining “SNL” as a featured player for season 46, she became just the second Black LGBTQ+ woman in the show’s history, after Danitra Vance.
Beyond “SNL,” Johnson has appeared in various series, including “A Black Lady Sketch Show,” “Space Force” and “Corporate.”
Originally Published: