Ego Nwodim is opening up about leaving Saturday Night Live.
Almost four months after announcing her departure from the iconic show, Nwodim explained her decision at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards.
“Here’s the thing: You’re gonna want to leave people wanting more, as opposed to people being tired of you,” Ego exclusively told Live From E!: Critics Choice Awards‘. “That’s my word of advice. You’re gonna want to leave you on a high note. So, it just felt like time.”
“I had accomplished so much there,” she continued. “And I got to be part of such an incredible ensemble. I learned so much. Then, I wanted to take those skills that I learned and cultivated there and see what else I can do.”
Nwodim also spoke about her being nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series category for the SNL performances
“The critics, they are not easy,” “Ego said. is what they do. They said, ‘We respect what you do.’ And I am so honored by that.”
“I’m over the moon,” she continued. “It feels really, really meaningful and special to have my work at SNL recognized. I’m in such great company tonight as well. This is a dream come true.”
The acclaimed comedian starred on legendary sketch show from 2018-2
Ego said that she couldn’t believe it when she received news of her nomination.
“I was screaming in my apartment,” Ego recalled. “I’m pretty sure the neighbors called the front desk on me.”
Ego was the fifth co-star to announce their departure from the show ahead of its 51st season.
“The hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight,” Ego wrote on her Instagram Stories. “But after seven unforgettable seasons, I have decided to leave SNL.”
“I am immensely grateful to Lorne [Michaels] for the opportunity, to my castmates, the writers, and the crew for their brilliance, support, and friendship,” she continued. “Week after week on that stage taught me more than I could have ever imagined, and I will carry those memories, and that laughter, with me always.”