'SNL' Adds 7 New Writers for Upcoming Season 51

As 'Saturday Night Live' prepares to kick off its 51st season next month, the long-running sketch comedy show has added seven new writers to its team. The new hires include a diverse group of talent, ranging from actors and stand-up comedians to writers from renowned comedy troupes.

Among the new additions are Jack Bensinger, known for his work on "Rap World," stand-up comedian Jo Sunday, and writer-comedian Claire McFadden from Second City. The show has also brought on actor and writer Rachel Pegram, who has credits on "Harley Quinn," as well as newcomers Maxwell Gay and Tucker Flodman from The Harvard Lampoon.

Alongside the new writers, 'SNL' has seen some significant cast changes ahead of the new season. Longtime cast members Heidi Gardner and Ego Nwodim have departed the show, along with Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, and John Higgins of the Please Don't Destroy trio. However, Martin Herlihy has moved from the cast to the writing staff, and Ben Marshall has joined the main cast.

Despite the changes, 'SNL' boss Lorne Michaels remains optimistic about the show's future, stating that "change is good" and that he's "really excited about" the new talent joining the team.