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Morgan Wallen Reportedly Welcome Back to Saturday Night Live After On-Stage Departure
Country music star Morgan Wallen is reportedly welcome to return to Studio 8H at “Saturday Night Live,” despite his abrupt departure during the show’s closing moments over the weekend. Sources familiar with NBC’s perspective have indicated that there is no lingering animosity toward the singer following what has been described as an “awkward moment.” This development suggests that Wallen, a prominent figure in country music, could potentially make future appearances on the iconic sketch comedy program.
NBC Sources Downplay On-Stage Exit
Insiders connected to NBC informed TMZ on Monday that “Saturday Night Live” is open to having the acclaimed country musician, aged 31, back on the show after his unexpected exit from the stage as the credits rolled.
According to these sources, the network considers the incident a minor and somewhat clumsy moment. From NBC’s viewpoint, Wallen leaving the stage as the closing credits began was simply an “awkward moment,” the outlet reported.
No Offense Taken by “SNL” Cast or Crew
Furthermore, sources assert that Wallen was not “insulted” or bothered by any of the jokes or content presented during the episode, which was hosted by Mikey Madison.
TMZ reported that the “Last Night” vocalist was present on the “SNL” set since the preceding Thursday and was fully aware of all comedic material slated for inclusion in the show. These sources further emphasized that “there was no tension” between Wallen and the “SNL” cast members.
Friendly Atmosphere Behind the Scenes
“We’re told everyone was amiable and enjoying themselves. And Morgan even departed in the same manner he had arrived for rehearsals, believing it was the standard procedure,” the insiders disclosed.
Representatives for Wallen, NBC, and “SNL” have been contacted for official comments.
Wallen’s Second “SNL” Performance
This past Saturday marked Wallen’s second occasion as the musical guest on the late-night sketch comedy show. He performed “I’m the Problem” and “Just in Case,” both tracks featured on his forthcoming fourth studio album, scheduled for release in May.
Details of the Stage Exit
As Madison, 26, concluded the broadcast, Wallen was seen embracing the “Anora” actress before proceeding to leave the stage as the end credits commenced, while the remainder of the cast celebrated the completion of another episode.
Subsequently, the Grammy-nominated artist posted an image of a private jet on his Instagram Story, accompanied by the caption, “Get me to God’s country.”
Social Media Backlash and Reactions
Wallen’s actions sparked criticism across social media platforms, with viewers labeling him as “petty” and “inconsiderate.”
“Hope the outburst was worthwhile because you’ll NEVER be on #SNL again,” one viewer posted on X.
Another user on X commented that Wallen seemed “displeased” during the show and characterized both of his musical performances as “angry and peculiar.”
Josh Patten, a writer for “SNL,” appeared to jest at Wallen’s private plane post by sharing a photograph of a Krispy Kreme delivery truck with its rear doors open, using the identical caption: “get me to God’s country.”
However, Patten later clarified in subsequent posts that he is an admirer of Wallen’s musical work.
The Empire State Building’s X account also engaged in the online commentary, tweeting a picture of the New York City skyline with the caption, “get me to god’s country.”
Source Claims Exit Was Unintentional
Amidst the ensuing controversy, a source close to Wallen informed TMZ on Sunday that his sudden stage departure was unintentional and not meant to cause offense.
The source elaborated that Wallen “entered and exited the studio in the same manner on Saturday night as he did during rehearsal and camera blocking sessions throughout the week leading up to the live broadcast… consequently, he routinely proceeded in that direction when he believed it was time to leave.”
Wallen’s History with “Saturday Night Live”
Wallen’s initial appearance on “SNL” was in December 2020. This came after he was previously uninvited from the show in October 2020 following his being photographed at a party in Alabama without wearing a face mask amidst the COVID-19 pandemic concerns.
He participated in a skit on the show that humorously addressed the earlier controversy.
In 2021, Wallen faced further controversy when a video surfaced on TMZ showing him using a racial slur, for which he subsequently issued an apology.