Big news from Studio 8H! Bowen Yang, one of the brightest stars of “Saturday Night Live”, has announced he’s leaving the show. After an impressive run over six seasons, Yang’s final appearance will be right after the Dec. 20 episode.
In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on Saturday, December 20, the 35-year-old star expressed his love for his time at SNL, reflecting on the importance of the people he worked with: “I loved working at SNL, and most of all I loved the people.” He mentioned the challenges faced in the world recently, but highlighted how the experience at 30 Rock reminded him of the significance of showing up and making a difference.
“I’m thankful for every single minute I spent there. I learned some things about myself (especially, I’m not great with wigs), and so much more about those around me (generous, vulnerable, and definitely hot). Comedy, I found, is all about the logistics and how you will often face failure before finally getting it right, which is honestly the best part,” he shared.
Having joined the SNL cast in 2018, Yang quickly captured the hearts of audiences. He transformed from a writer into a featured player and eventually became a key cast member, amassing quite the fan base along the way.
Yang’s unexpected departure comes during the show’s 51st season, just as fellow cast members Ego Nwodim and Heidi Gardner made waves by announcing they wouldn’t return for the new season. This wave of exits also included Michael Longfellow and Emil Wakim, marking a significant change for the beloved sketch comedy.
Despite the prestigious reputation of SNL, many celebrities who graced its stage have successfully leveraged that platform into broader fame, with undeniable talents like Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, and Maya Rudolph being past examples. For Yang, it seems that’s also in the cards. He’s been busy landing roles in major productions like “Wicked” and its sequel, season two.
Listeners adore Yang’s podcast, “Las Culturistas,” co-hosted with Matt Rogers, which regularly attracts A-list guests like Reese Witherspoon and former first lady Michelle Obama. The show has gained a following and has even created a popular awards event that airs on Bravo.
This news about Yang’s departure drops just before Ariana Grande takes the stage as host of SNL this Saturday, with music from Cher. In a previous chat with USA TODAY before his announce, Yang mentioned Cher as his ultimate dream host: “Cher. It’s always Cher.”
Contributing: Brendan Morrow, USA TODAY
This article was initially published by USA TODAY: Bowen Yang leaving ‘Saturday Night Live’ after 6 years in shock exit
