SNL's Ashley Padilla Emerges as Breakout Star in Season 51

In the 51st season of Saturday Night Live, which is currently five weeks in, one featured player has stood out as a breakout star: Ashley Padilla. A member of the Groundlings comedy troupe, Padilla joined the SNL cast for Season 50 without a long list of TV credits, but has already made a significant impact on audiences.

Padilla has been prominently featured in sketches, often serving as the key source of laughs, whether she's playing a midwestern mom, a single socialite, or a sorority sister with moxie. According to the series-centric group Saturday Night Network, Padilla has appeared in more sketches this season than any other repertory cast member, a remarkable achievement for a featured player.

The show's producers seem to be taking notice of Padilla's talents, and fans have been vocal in their support for the rising star. With her ability to excel in a wide range of comedic roles, from pop culture parodies to direct-to-camera appeals, Padilla is being viewed as the next big breakout from the SNL cast. While a promotion to the main cast is not a guarantee, many are optimistic that Padilla will earn that distinction before the show's 52nd season premieres in 2026.