What did former SNL cast members Troast and Johnson say about their experiences after being fired from the show?

Troast and Johnson described the adjustment after leaving SNL as "really hard," with Troast noting there is no "cushion" when you fall. Johnson felt immense pressure to immediately find success, saying "you can't leave SNL and then go do the same things you was doing before."

How did Troast and Johnson's time on SNL impact them?

Despite the difficulties, both Troast and Johnson acknowledged that their SNL experience made them stronger. Johnson believes she can "handle anything" in Hollywood now, as the show "honestly really built me up and made me strong mentally."

What did former SNL cast member Longfellow say about his exit from the show?

Longfellow, who left SNL after three seasons, called the experience "the best three years of my life so far" and said it was "the greatest job in the world and changed my life."

Home / Arts and Entertainment / SNL Alums Speak Candidly About Life After Being Fired from the Show

SNL Alums Speak Candidly About Life After Being Fired from the Show

5 Oct

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Summary

SNL cast members describe the show as a "different monster" that "throws you in the water"
Troast says adjusting after SNL has been "really hard" without a "cushion"
Johnson felt the pressure to immediately do "the next big thing" after leaving SNL

SNL Alums Speak Candidly About Life After Being Fired from the Show

In September 2025, several former Saturday Night Live cast members gathered for a farewell party to toast the departing talent. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the event, two of the exiting comedians, Troast and Johnson, candidly discussed the realities of being fired from the iconic late-night sketch show.

Troast, who left SNL last year after a single season, admitted that while the experience "fundamentally changed" her life, the adjustment after her stint on the show has been "really hard." She noted that there is no "cushion" when you fall after being let go from SNL, and she's grateful to have the support of her family and close friends to guide her through this transition.