Bowen Yang will exit Saturday Night Live after the Dec. 20 episode featuring Ariana Grande and Cher.
Background
Yang joined SNL as a writer in 2018, became a featured player in Season 45 (2019), and was promoted to the main cast in Season 47 (2021).
Decision
He is leaving in Season 51, roughly three months after the exits of Ego Nwodim, Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, writer John Higgins, and others in September. In the same month, Yang told People that he had decided to stay for another season after a conversation with SNL creator Lorne Michaels.
“I’ve always gone by the instinct of, do I have more to do? And I feel like I do,” Yang told the outlet.
“Even Lorne and I talked about it, and Lorne was like, ‘You have more to do,’ and that means a lot, because I even confessed to him,” Yang continued.
“I was like, ‘I feel the audience is maybe getting sick of me.’ And he was like, ‘That’s not true. There’s more for you to do. I need you.'”
Yang said he had to “honor” Michaels’ wishes. “That man has changed my life, and I owe a lot of my life to that show. And I love working there, the people are the best. I really love each of them so much,” he explained.
Role and Legacy
During his time on SNL, Yang was known for being a versatile cast member. He showcased his own zany sense of humor in several memorable moments at the “Weekend Update” desk, such as the iceberg that sank the Titanic and Moo Deng.
He told People that being on SNL was a kind of “boot camp” for young entertainers, which, he said, “implies that there is a next phase you train for something else.” He added that it is always a transitional place and a launching pad, and he expressed excitement to see what the departing cast members will do and enthusiasm for the new cast.
Key Takeaways
- Yang exits Season 51 after the Dec. 20 episode featuring Ariana Grande and Cher.
- He joined as a writer in 2018, became a main cast member in Season 47.
- He cites Lorne Michaels’ encouragement and desire to honor show as reasons for his departure.
Bowen Yang’s exit marks the end of an era for the show’s cast, but his comments suggest he remains grateful for the opportunities SNL has provided.
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