
SNL Shake-Up: Please Don’t Destroy Splits as Ben Marshall Rises to Fame!
2025-09-02
Author: Wai
A Major Shift in the Comedy Trio
The dynamic comedy trio known as Please Don’t Destroy is experiencing a significant shake-up on the iconic show, Saturday Night Live. This comes as Ben Marshall, one-third of the group, joins the featured cast, while John Higgins has decided to leave the series to chase new acting opportunities.
The Hopeful Future for Herlihy and Marshall
Despite Higgins’ departure, Martin Herlihy remains on the writing staff, meaning the comedic brains behind some of SNL’s most viral sketches won't be entirely disbanded. Hilarity isn't writing off Marshall and Herlihy just yet; the duo will continue collaborating on various projects outside of SNL, including their ongoing tour.
From NYU to SNL Superstars
The trio, which originally formed in 2017 as NYU students, gained fame with their quirky and often self-deprecating digital shorts that caught the attention of audiences everywhere — especially in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their work, reminiscent of the legendary Lonely Island, frequently showcased household names like Taylor Swift and Timothée Chalamet.
Exploring New Horizons
In 2023, the group released their film, Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain, streaming on Peacock, with Judd Apatow in the producer’s chair, marking yet another milestone in their rising careers. Additionally, Herlihy has been busy with roles in upcoming films, including the highly anticipated Happy Gilmore 2.
Comedy Runs in the Family
Interestingly, both Herlihy and Higgins come from impressive comedic lineages. Herlihy is the son of Tim Herlihy, a long-time SNL writer and head writer in the late '90s, while Higgins’ father, Steve Higgins, has been an integral part of the SNL writing team since 1995. This comedy pedigree suggests that we can expect even more brilliance from the next generation.
What's Next for Please Don’t Destroy?
While the world is eager to see what’s next for each member of Please Don’t Destroy, one thing is certain: their unique comedic style and undeniable talent will ensure that they remain a powerful force in the comedy landscape. Keep your eyes peeled; the best is yet to come!