It was revealed last week that Leslie Jones will not be returning for season 45 of NBC’s Saturday Night Live. The comedian — who made her debut on the iconic late-night variety show in 2014 — took to Twitter on Tuesday to bid farewell to the job that made her a household name, while also sharing fond memories of working with SNL’s cast and creator Lorne Michaels.
“Yes it’s true I am leaving Saturday Night Live. I cannot thank NBC, the producers, writers, and amazing crew enough for making SNL my second home these last five years,” Jones wrote in a thread. “Lorne Michaels, you’ve changed my life in so many ways! Thank you for being my mentor and confidant and for always having my back.”
Jones accompanied her message with a video montage featuring herself dressed in costume as her innumerable SNL characters. She credited Michaels for helping her exit the series “a better performer.”
The actress also thanked her co-stars for making the experience of being on the show all the more memorable. “I will miss holding it down with Kenan [Thompson] everyday, I will miss Cecily [Strong]’s impression of me making me laugh at myself often, I will miss Kate [McKinnon]’s loving hugs and talks when I needed. And of course Colin [Jost], you porcelain-skinned Ken doll,” Jones continued. “I will miss all my cast mates!!”
Jones ended her post by sharing her gratitude for the support she’s received from her fans — and shared that she is thrilled for what’s to come post-SNL, which includes feature film projects and a Netflix comedy special. “Thank you for all the love and support through my SNL years and I know you will be as excited as I am when you see some of the amazing projects and adventures that I have coming up very soon!” she wrote. “Love you all!! #iamnotdeadjustgraduating.”
See Jones’ entire Twitter thread here.
Saturday Night Live returns to NBC on Sept. 28 with host Woody Harrelson and musical guest Billie Eilish.
