Leslie Jones Will Not Return To ‘Saturday Night Live’
After five seasons, Leslie Jones is quitting Saturday Night Live.
“Leslie has chosen to depart as she has several upcoming projects in the works,” an unidentified source told Page Six. “And she thought it was the right time to go.”
The 51-year old was originally hired as a writer on the comedy sketch series, making occasional appearances on the “Weekend Update” segment before being promoted to a full-time cast member in 2014. She became the oldest new cast member at age 47.
Jones was among the original comedians considered for a full-time spot back in December 2013 when the show was blasted for its lack of diversity. Sasheer Zamata was instead hired, but left the show in 2017.
As a fan favorite, the comedienne was nominated in 2017 and 2018 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series at the Primetime Emmy Awards. She’s also nominated for an Emmy Award this year for co-writing “Upper East Side,” a song featured in SNL‘s 44th season.
Moving on, Jones will focus on other opportunities. The Memphis native currently stars in Angry Birds 2 and will film her Netflix stand-up comedy special in Washington, D.C. in September. She’s currently filming the highly-anticipated Coming to America sequel, titled Coming 2 America.
The Ghostbusters actress will also star alongside Chris Rock in the upcoming boxing drama, I Am Maurice, and with Kristen Bell in the indie film, Queenpins.
The 45th season of SNL will debut on September 28 with Woody Harrelson and Billie Eilish serving as the musical guest.