Drama Unfolds as Morgan Wallen Exits Saturday Night Live Stage
A notable moment occurred during Saturday Night Live’s latest episode, as country music sensation Morgan Wallen made a swift exit from Studio 8H. This event sparked significant online discussions, especially after Wallen posted an Instagram story featuring an image of a jet with the caption, “Get me to God’s country,” hinting at his Tennessee roots.
A Sudden Departure Raises Eyebrows
Although Wallen has not publicly commented on his exit, sources have informed The Hollywood Reporter that his abrupt departure wasn’t an isolated incident. During the dress rehearsal, which is pre-taped in front of a different live audience, Wallen similarly vanished after a brief moment on stage. The rehearsals last two hours, contrasting with the live show’s 90-minute runtime.
A Dramatic Stage Exit
In the televised version, Wallen’s exit was notably dramatic, as the director maintained a focused camera angle that showcased his exit route. He walked off the stage, almost as if disappearing directly into the viewers’ living rooms. While initially, the audience may not have thought much of it, a source noted that Wallen’s team was polite and accommodating throughout the week, suggesting that the online frenzy took many by surprise.
Reactions from Cast Members
Longtime cast member Kenan Thompson shared his thoughts on Wallen’s departure, expressing that he “definitely” noticed the quick exit. “You see somebody before you get a chance to say hi or say good job or anything like that, they just dipping,” Thompson remarked in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. He humorously speculated that Wallen might have been rushing to the restroom.
Thompson also pondered Wallen’s state of mind, saying, “I don’t know what goes through people’s minds when they decide to do stuff like that.” This incident had distinct visibility, which led some internet users to argue that Wallen’s exit could symbolize a protest, given his appeal to a largely conservative fan base in contrast to SNL’s typically liberal inclination.
Wallen’s Checkered SNL History
This incident isn’t the first time Wallen has experienced turbulence during an SNL appearance. Back in October 2020, he was removed from the lineup after videos emerged of him flouting CDC-recommended social distancing protocol. Despite the setback, Wallen ultimately performed on the show two months later, even incorporating a parody of his earlier missteps into his segment.
Speculations and Performance Updates
Speculation has also arisen regarding Wallen’s absence from a pre-taped sketch typically filmed on Fridays. Though some believe it was a personal choice, sources close to the show have indicated that musical guests often prioritize their performances over participation in sketches due to busy schedules or disinterest in the material.
In a contrasting performance, Joe Jonas made an appearance on Saturday’s SNL, singing a segment of “Big Dumb Line,” a humorous number centered around the unique phenomenon of waiting in long lines for trendy foods. It was reported that Wallen was approached for a role in the same skit but was unavailable.
Wallen concluded the night by performing two songs from his forthcoming album, I’m the Problem. Afterward, he expressed his gratitude to host Mikey Madison, offering a hug before whispering something as the closing credits began.