Bowen Yang, the trailblazing comedian who made history by becoming the first Chinese-American cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ (SNL), is bidding farewell to the iconic sketch comedy show. News broke in December 2025 that Yang, who joined SNL in 2019 for its 45th season, will be leaving mid-season. This departure marks the end of a memorable chapter in Yang’s career on the show, where he also stood out as one of the first openly gay stars and earned an Emmy nomination in 2021 for his exceptional acting.
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Sources close to the situation have confirmed the news of Bowen Yang’s departure, although neither Yang nor SNL representatives have provided official comments on the matter. Reflecting on his time on the show, Yang expressed deep gratitude, stating, “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.” Despite the lack of an official statement from Yang about the reasons behind his exit, his impact and legacy on SNL remain undeniable.
While speculation swirls around the reasons for Yang’s departure, the comedian had previously hinted at a possible transition in his career. In an interview in April 2025, Yang mentioned the demanding production schedule of SNL, indicating that it might eventually lead him to “hang it up at some point.” However, Yang emphasized that his decision to leave was not set in stone, as he believed there was still more for him to explore and contribute to the show.
Yang’s final episode as part of the SNL cast is scheduled to air on December 20, featuring his close friend Ariana Grande as the host and the legendary Cher as the musical guest. The trio recently appeared in a promotional video for the upcoming episode, generating excitement among fans for Yang’s farewell performance. As the date of his departure approaches, viewers are eager to see how Yang’s journey on SNL will culminate and reflect on his impact over the seasons.
Looking back at his time on the show, Bowen Yang has undeniably left a lasting impression with his memorable characters and comedic talents. His departure comes amidst other exits from the SNL cast, including notable names like Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Emil Wakim, Devon Walker, Josh Higgins, and Ego Nwodim ahead of the 51st season. Yang’s departure signals a period of transition for the show as it continues to evolve with new talent and fresh perspectives.
In the entertainment industry, cast changes and departures are common occurrences that mark the ebb and flow of creative careers. As Bowen Yang prepares to take his final bow on ‘Saturday Night Live,’ fans and colleagues alike are sure to celebrate his contributions to the show while eagerly anticipating his next endeavors. Yang’s unique blend of humor and talent has left an indelible mark on SNL, ensuring that his legacy will endure long after his exit from the iconic comedy institution.
In conclusion, Bowen Yang’s departure from ‘Saturday Night Live’ signifies the end of a significant chapter in his career and the show’s history. While the reasons for his exit remain undisclosed, Yang’s impact as a groundbreaking cast member and talented performer will be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike. As he prepares to bid farewell to SNL, Yang’s future endeavours are sure to be eagerly anticipated as he continues to showcase his comedic genius and creative flair on new platforms and projects.