Martin Herlihy Departs ‘SNL’ After 5 Seasons

Martin Herlihy is set to depart "Saturday Night Live" after a five-season run, according to TheWrap. The comedian began his tenure as a writer for the show's sketch group, Please Don’t Destroy, alongside Ben Marshall and John Higgins in 2021. The trio initially gained recognition for their eccentric prerecorded sketches, featuring prominent celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Bad Bunny.

In Season 51, Higgins left to explore other ventures; Herlihy continued as a writer, while Marshall transitioned into a full-time cast member.

Herlihy frequently showcased his comedic talents through solo sketches, where he sat in an antique armchair, dispensing unsolicited advice or navigating absurd situations, including "Blowing It" and "Social Experiment." However, his most memorable standalone sketch, "Green Flags," took a unique approach. In this sketch, Herlihy portrayed a man attempting to conceal his erotic Lego collection from his date, played by Ashley Padilla.

While all three members of Please Don’t Destroy contributed to "SNL" as writers, the trio also collaborated on "Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain," released on Peacock in 2023. Herlihy's acting credits extend beyond "SNL," including roles in "The Running Man," "Happy Gilmore 2," "Roommates," and "The Breadwinner."

Despite not being a cast member, Herlihy's departure is anticipated to be significant in Season 52, given his extensive involvement in numerous sketches throughout his time on the show. In July, fellow cast member Chloe Fineman also announced her imminent exit from "SNL." Fineman expressed gratitude for her role in the series, stating, "Working at 'SNL' has been the greatest privilege of my life."

Herlihy and Fineman are the only two "SNL" regulars not expected to return for Season 52, though it remains uncertain if more writers and cast members will depart as the season commences on September 26.