After eight seasons with the long running NBC sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live, Will Forte has put in his resignation, bowing out of SNL's upcoming 36th season. This news comes from The New York Times, who did not give a specific reason for Will Forte's sudden departure.

The comedian did offer thanks to both his colleagues and Saturday Night Live producer Lorne Michaels in an email sent out by one of his representatives. The informal letter stated:

"After eight great seasons, Will has made the decision to move on from SNL to pursue new opportunities. He is eternally grateful to Lorne Michaels and all of the incredible people he worked with over the years."

Will Forte will be remembered for bringing many memorable and off-beat characters to the show, such as political candidate Tom Calhoun and explosives "expert" MacGruber, whose feature film debut did little to ignite the box office this past sumer. At this time, NBC has declined to comment on any new cast members who may be coming to Saturday Night Live for its 36th season this fall.

We will be sure to keep you abreast of all Will Forte's upcoming endevors in both film and television. He will next be seen with former Saturday Night Live cast member David Koechner in A Good Old Fashioned Orgy.