Originally appeared on E! Online
Live from Santa Monica, Ego Nwodim is explaining her major career change.
Nearly four months after the comedian announced she was leaving “Saturday Night Live” following seven seasons, she shared further insight into her perspective on the move 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,” Nwodim exclusively told Live From E!: Critics Choice Awards’ Justin Sylvester at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, Jan. 4. “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. “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.”
The 37-year-old definitely proved how well she perfected her skills. After all, Nwodim is nominated in the Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series category for the “SNL” performances at the Chelsea Handler-hosted event. (See more stars here.)
PHOTOS Critics Choice Awards 2026: Winners List
“The critics, they are not easy,” she emphasized. “Criticize 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.”
Nwodim also admitted that she was in disbelief when she learned of her nomination.
“I was screaming in my apartment,” she recalled. “I’m pretty sure the neighbors called the front desk on me.”
Nwodim, the fifth costar to announce their exit as part of season 51’s cast shakeup, first shared a heartfelt message about her decision in September.
“The hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight,” she 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.”
“Take a Hawaiian vacation and you, too, can go on SNL!”
