Why Cecily Strong Kept Her SNL Departure A Secret – Looper

Cecily Strong took to Instagram after her last “Saturday Night Live” appearance and shared footage from the episode of the cast singing together, along with celebrity guest Austin Butler, perhaps best known for his role as Elvis Presley in “Elvis.” During the episode, Strong got to duet with Butler on a cover of “Blue Christmas.” In her message to fans, Strong noted she had the benefit of having Elvis sing her off the show. 

As to why she kept her decision to leave so quiet, the comedian said she didn’t want added pressure on top of what is already a massive change in her career and life. “I’m sorry I’ve been a little quiet about it publicly. I didn’t want the extra pressure on something already so emotional for me,” Strong wrote.

Strong’s last “SNL” appearance took place during the 48th season finale, which saw her bid farewell to her castmates and the audience. In one segment where she was playing an employee during her last day at Radio Shack, longtime cast member Kenan Thompson praised Strong’s presence on the series.

“She had a power and joy to her performance that made you remember why you loved working at Radio Shack in the first place,” Thompson joked about his co-star in the scene. Thompson has been on the series since 2003, which arguably made him the most fitting member of the cast to say goodbye.