Exclusive: Maya Rudolph's SNL Decision Revealed!

• Sep 21, 2007 05:47 PM ET
• by Michael Ausiello

This is bad news for Whitney Houston, but great news for Saturday Night Live fans: When SNL kicks off its 33rd season next weekend, Maya Rudolph will still be a part of the cast. Sources confirm that the funny lady - whose contract expired in May - has inked a new deal with the show. And all I have to say to that is, Hallefreakinlujah!

As I reported earlier this month, the down-to-the-wire negotiations fueled speculation that Rudolph was seriously considering leaving. And while I have no doubt that a successful post- SNL career awaits her, I'm relieved she's staying put. Between her, Amy Poehler and Kristen Wiig, SNL boasts the funniest crop of women since the Cheri/Molly/Ana era. And losing any one of them would've been a major drag.

But that's just me. What about you? Are you happy Rudolph is sticking around? Or do you think it was time she pursued those greener pastures? Express yourself below!