NBC today confirmed long-floated rumors that three cast members would be ushered away from the cast of Saturday Night Live. Which three? Horatio Sanz, Chris Parnell, and Finesse Mitchell.
This is Parnell's second exit from the show. He joined in 1998, was let go in 2001 then recalled in 2002. Sanz, SNL's first Latino member, also joined in 1998. Mitchell came on board in 2003.
Parnell's departure is the most surprising, if only because he earned considerable attention last year for the "Lazy Sunday" short film, in which he co-starred alongside new addition Andy Samberg.
Also missing from the cast this season: Tina Fey and Rachel Dratch (who are working on the SNL-themed sitcom 30 Rock. No new cast members have yet been added.
SNL returns September 30 with an episode hosted by Dane Cook and featuring musical guests The Killers.