Ego Nwodim Prepares for SNL Season Finale Amid Future Ambitions

NEW YORK CITY — On a warm Thursday night, Ego Nwodim, 37, is enjoying dinner at a chic restaurant just steps from 30 Rock, where she stars in the upcoming season 50 finale of Saturday Night Live (SNL). With less than an hour before she has to head back to Studio 8H, Nwodim reflects on her journey with the iconic sketch show.

As our conversation begins, she orders a tequila cocktail and quickly engages with our server, who mentions he doesn’t speak French. The sharp-witted Nwodim responds, jokingly picking up on his use of “hella,” confirming he’s from the Bay Area, an observation that impresses him.

“I know area codes,” she laughs. “It’s the weird, useless skill I have.” Her keen observational skills have propelled her comedy career. Since her debut on SNL in season 44, Nwodim has become known for her unique sketches, including the popular “Mid-Day News,” where she tackles topics about race representation in news reporting.

“I can’t be the only one who reads news this way,” she recalls the inception of the sketch. Her standout performances have established her as a prominent figure in the SNL cast, displaying an electric presence each week.

Nwodim has also expanded her portfolio beyond SNL, launching the podcast Thanks, Dad, and co-starring in Peacock’s Mr. Throwback alongside Steph Curry. Recently, she hosted a live event with Teyana Taylor and La La Anthony.

“Whatever I’m doing in five years, I’m going to be passionate about it,” Nwodim says when discussing her career ambitions. “It’s really important to me that I’m enjoying this one precious life.”

As SNL approaches its season finale, the camaraderie among cast members fills her with gratitude. “I work with some of the funniest, most hardworking people on the planet,” she says. “We just want to make you laugh and have fun with our friends.”

Nwodim’s rise to “senior” cast member status feels surreal to her. “One day you look up and you’re a senior and don’t even realize it’s happened,” she explains. She acknowledges sharing the stage with SNL veterans can feel intimidating yet also recognizes her own growth over the years.

Reflecting on mentorship, she mentions Cecily Strong‘s influence in teaching her the importance of recharging during hiatus weeks. “It’s important to find those places and times to slow down and recharge,” she advises newcomers, echoing lessons learned from her early days at SNL.

With excitement buzzing around the finale, Nwodim has yet to confirm if Miss Eggy, her engaging alter ego, will return. “We don’t know what the show is going to be,” she notes regarding the unpredictability of SNL.

As the night winds down, Nwodim emphasizes the unpredictable rhythm of life at SNL and her passion for comedy. Her laughter and insights showcase the dedication she brings to her craft. “I want to do it all,” Nwodim concludes, promising her fans more entertaining performances to come.