

Last Updated: 28 Aug, 2025 | Views: 485
Age: 27
Profession: Actor
Other Profession(s): Comedian
Higher Education: Indiana University, Bloomington (BA)
About (Profile/Biography):
Emil Wakim, born March 11, 1998, is a Chicago born comedian and actor of Lebanese American heritage who rose through the stand up ranks to become a featured player on Saturday Night Live (SNL) during its 50th season. Known for blending social commentary with personal anecdotes, he made his television debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in 2022 after earning recognition as a "New Face of Comedy" at Montreal’s Just for Laughs. Emil, affectionately called “Em,” broke ground as SNL’s first Lebanese American cast member, adding fresh perspectives to the iconic sketch series. Despite his short-lived stint, he left an impression with appearances on Weekend Update and memorable impressions. Now based in Brooklyn, he continues to tour, perform stand up, and explore acting opportunities. Em’s journey from immigrant background comedy clubs to national television reflects resilience, identity, and a flair for witty storytelling.
Early Life & Education of Emil Wakim
• Emil was born in Chicago and raised in Bloomington, Indiana, where he began doing stand up in college, embracing his roots and identity.
• He grew up as “Em” in a Lebanese Maronite Arab Christian household, navigating dual cultures while honing his comedic voice.
• He graduated from Indiana University, Bloomington with a BA before moving to Brooklyn to pursue comedy full time.
Career Beginnings for Emil Wakim
• He was selected as a “New Face of Comedy” at Just for Laughs in Montreal, marking Em’s early industry breakthrough.
• Em opened for big names like Roy Wood Jr., Nikki Glaser, Hasan Minhaj, Neal Brennan, and Kyle Kinane on the comedy circuit.
• He made his late night debut on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon in 2022, achieving what he calls one of his career highlights.
Saturday Night Live of Emil Wakim
• Em joined SNL as a featured player for the landmark 50th season, becoming the show’s first Lebanese American regular.
• He was known for his “Weekend Update” bits and a Luigi Mangione impression that fans quickly noticed and praised.
• On August 27, 2025, Em announced he’d been let go before season 51, calling the news “a gut punch” but expressing gratitude for the experience.
Awards & Recognitions received by Emil Wakim
• Em was named a “New Face of Comedy” at the Just for Laughs Festival, a prestigious early career honor.
• His Tonight Show debut in 2022 served as an unofficial milestone widely celebrated in comedy circles.
• He earned recognition as SNL’s first Lebanese American cast member—a notable milestone for diversity on the show.
Controversy around Emil Wakim
• Em’s departure from SNL after just one season sparked conversation fans and media called it a surprising “one and done” exit.
• Some internet commentary speculated about internal show dynamics, but Em himself framed the exit as tough yet respectful.
• His firing became part of wider cast and writers’ turnover ahead of SNL’s season 51 shake up.
Lesser Known Facts about Emil Wakim
• Em’s Wikipedia portrait became an internet talking point Reddit users joked the photo looked hilariously awkward, suggesting a prank like origin.
• He performed stand up in Beirut during 2024, bringing his immigrant family stories home to a Lebanese audience.
• Em was the keynote stand up performer for MENA Heritage Month at UW–Madison in March 2025, combining comedy and cultural celebration.
Wait!
Here're some popular profiles for you.
