Home / Arts and Entertainment / Sherri Shepherd Demands SNL Hire Black Female Comedians
Sherri Shepherd Demands SNL Hire Black Female Comedians
7 Oct
Summary
- Ego Nwodim, SNL's only Black female cast member, has left the show
- Sherri Shepherd criticizes SNL's lack of Black female representation
- Shepherd suggests several talented Black female comics for SNL to consider
In the latest episode of her talk show, Sherri Shepherd addressed the recent departure of Ego Nwodim from the cast of Saturday Night Live. Nwodim was the only Black female cast member on the show, and her exit has left SNL without any Black women in the ensemble.
Shepherd praised Nwodim's contributions, particularly her viral "Miss Eggy" sketch, which she described as one of the "funniest" on the show. She then called on SNL to "not disappoint" viewers and quickly find a replacement, describing the situation as an "emergency" that requires urgent action.
Shepherd noted SNL's poor track record in hiring Black female talent, recalling how cast member Kenan Thompson often had to dress in drag to portray Black women in pop culture. She also shared her own experiences, such as when there was no Black woman on The View to play her during sketches, and when Tracy Morgan impersonated her while guest-hosting SNL.
Emphasizing the importance of representation, Shepherd suggested several talented Black female comedians that SNL should consider, including Tacarra Williams, B-Phlat, and Yamaneika Saunders, as well as her own comedy producer, Robin Montague. She expressed frustration at the notion that the show "can't find anybody," arguing that there are many skilled Black female comics waiting for this opportunity.
As of October 7th, 2025, the situation remains unresolved, with SNL yet to announce a replacement for Nwodim. Shepherd's call for action has sparked a wider conversation about the need for greater diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.
