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Country music star Morgan Wallen made a return appearance as the musical performer on Saturday Night Live nearly five years after his prior booking was rescinded. Academy Award-winning actress Mikey Madison took on hosting duties for the March 29, 2025, show. In line with established custom, Madison joined Wallen and the SNL cast on stage for the goodbyes at the program’s conclusion. However, Wallen’s sudden departure as the credits began to roll ignited considerable discussion across social media platforms. Despite an apparent amicable exchange between Wallen and Madison, the “I’m the Problem” vocalist’s early exit was unusual, as musical guests typically remain on stage until the show definitively ends. This prompted questions regarding the rationale behind Morgan Wallen’s swift walk-off at the end of SNL.
Below are the latest updates regarding Morgan Wallen’s unexpected departure from the SNL stage.
@countrycentral bro booked it #morganwallen #snl
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Exchange Between Morgan Wallen and Mikey Madison on SNL
The specifics of Morgan Wallen’s brief words to Mikey Madison remain unknown; however, judging by their visible reactions, their brief conversation appeared to be pleasant. A hug was also exchanged before the Grammy-nominated artist departed the stage.
Reasons Behind Morgan Wallen’s Stage Exit at SNL
While Morgan Wallen has not publicly addressed his stage walk-off, numerous news sources indicate no negative intent was behind his actions. Variety magazine cited sources close to Wallen stating his return to SNL was a “positive experience” and that “no offense was intended” by his exit.
Furthermore, Fox News stated that an insider revealed Wallen’s exit was consistent with his studio arrival and departure routine throughout the week, including rehearsals and camera blocking. He simply followed this established pattern after embracing Madison.
Morgan Wallen’s Previous Controversies
Public speculation surrounding Morgan Wallen’s recent stage departure might be linked to his past publicized controversies. In late 2020, Wallen was initially scheduled as SNL‘s musical guest but faced removal after social media footage emerged showing him violating COVID-19 safety guidelines. Videos circulated online depicted Wallen at an Alabama bar, failing to adhere to social distancing protocols prevalent during the pandemic.
SNL promptly rescinded Morgan Wallen’s invitation as musical guest. The country singer issued an apology via an Instagram video at the time.
“I received a call from Saturday Night Live informing me I am no longer able to perform,” Wallen stated from his New York City hotel room. “I respect the show’s decision, because I recognize I placed them in a compromising position, and I accept responsibility for my actions.”
Months later, SNL extended a second invitation to Morgan Wallen, who participated in a self-deprecating skit humorously referencing his bar-related conduct during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, renewed criticism arose for Wallen in 2021 when a past video resurfaced capturing him using a racial slur. Later that year, he addressed the incident publicly during an interview on Good Morning America.
“I was with some friends, and we often exchange foolish remarks amongst ourselves,” he explained. “In our perception, it was intended to be lighthearted… which now sounds ignorant but accurately reflects its origin—and it was unequivocally wrong.”