Bowen Yang Announces Departure from ‘Saturday Night Live’

Bowen Yang is set to leave Saturday Night Live (SNL) midseason, coinciding with the show’s Christmas break. This decision comes after the episode hosted by his Wicked co-star Ariana Grande, featuring a musical performance by Cher.

Bowen Yang’s Journey on SNL

Yang joined SNL as a writer in 2018 before becoming a cast member in Season 45. He was elevated to repertory status in Season 47. Over the years, Yang emerged as one of the show’s breakout stars, known for his quick wit and memorable sketches.

Notable Achievements

• Became the first featured player nominated for a Primetime Emmy in the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series category.
• Gained viral fame in sketches portraying the Titanic iceberg and characters like Jafar and a gay Oompa Loompa.
• Acclaimed for his roles in Bros and Fire Island, and as Pfannee in Wicked.

Reasons Behind the Departure

Yang’s exit from the show was not entirely unexpected. He has hinted at leaving during recent months. In a conversation with SNL creator Lorne Michaels, he expressed concerns about audience fatigue. Michaels reassured him, stating, “You have more to do,” emphasizing Yang’s importance to the show.

Impact of Cast Changes

Yang’s departure follows a wave of exits from SNL, including Cecily Strong, who left in December 2022, and others like Ego Nwodim and Heidi Gardner over the summer. Michaels highlighted that such changes can be beneficial for the show’s evolution.

What’s Next for Bowen Yang?

In addition to his work on SNL, Yang is busy with various projects. He hosts the Las Culturistas podcast with Matt Rogers, which has been transformed into a Bravo awards show. Furthermore, he is writing and co-starring in a comedy feature based on an episode from the Search Engine podcast.

Yang’s departure marks the close of a significant chapter in his career, but it also opens new possibilities in the entertainment industry.