Key Highlights
- Bowen Yang is leaving ‘Saturday Night Live’ midseason during the Christmas break.
- Yang joined as a writer in 2018 and was promoted to repertory status ahead of Season 47.
- This departure marks another cast exodus after Ego Nwodim, Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim left over the summer.
- Yang has been one of SNL’s breakout stars, known for his viral sketches and diverse roles on shows like Bros and Fire Island.
The Departure: Bowen Yang and ‘Saturday Night Live’
Bowen Yang is leaving the long-running comedy series ‘Saturday Night Live’ after a successful stint that has seen him become one of SNL’s most recognizable faces. According to Deadline, Yang will exit midseason during the Christmas break following this week’s show, which is hosted by Ariana Grande with Cher making a musical appearance.
Yang’s Journey: From Writer to Cast Member
Bowen Yang’s journey at SNL began in 2018 when he joined as a writer. He was promoted to cast member for the 45th season and later elevated to repertory status, a position typically reserved for guest stars who contribute regularly. Yang’s rise to prominence came with his dynamic performances that often went viral, showcasing his versatility across various comedic characters.
A Breakout Star
Yang has made an indelible mark on the SNL landscape through his memorable skits and sketches. His character portrayals include a Titanic iceberg on “Weekend Update,” Jafar from Disney’s Aladdin, and even a straight man in unconventional situations with Gina Gershon and Sydney Sweeney. His comedic talents extended beyond television as he starred in ‘Wicked’ and its sequel, demonstrating his range both on stage and screen.
Busy Schedule
Beyond his SNL commitments, Yang has remained an active presence in the entertainment industry. He currently hosts the podcast “Las Culturistas” with Matt Rogers, which has evolved into a Bravo awards show. Additionally, he is writing and co-starring in a comedy feature based on an episode of the Search Engine podcast for Searchlight Pictures, keeping him busy both behind and in front of the camera.
Change at SNL
The departure of Yang is part of a broader cast exodus that began after Season 50. Ego Nwodim, Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim all left over the summer. This shift has led to some uncertainty about the future direction of the show.
In September, SNL creator Lorne Michaels addressed these changes by stating, “Change is good. The show has always brought people in from different ages and different generations and it’s how it revives itself.” However, this year’s exodus marks a significant shake-up for one of America’s longest-running and most beloved comedy shows.
The impact of Yang’s departure will be felt not only among SNL fans but also across the entertainment industry. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the show’s comedic landscape, and his absence could signal new creative directions for future seasons. As ‘Saturday Night Live’ continues to navigate these changes, the legacy of Bowen Yang remains an important part of its storied history.