Bowen Yang Says He Was Used as ‘the Seasoning’ on “Saturday Night Live”: ‘I Never Felt Like I Was That Central’

**Bowen Yang Reflects on an Influential Seven Seasons with ‘Saturday Night Live’**

Bowen Yang, who concluded his notable journey with *Saturday Night Live* (SNL) in December 2025, has expressed deep gratitude for his time on the show, describing it as an experience he will “cherish for the rest of my life.” The 35-year-old comedian recently opened up about his decision to leave during an interview with actress Rachel Sennott for the “Actors on Actors” series, a collaboration between *Variety* and CNN, published on June 8, 2026.

In the candid conversation, Yang discussed the thought process behind his departure, stating that he felt it was the right time to move on. Even leading up to his exit, he had been contemplating leaving the show, feeling that after Season 50, SNL was poised to thrive without him. “I was kind of resolute the season before about leaving,” Yang noted, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the future of the show. He added, “I think the show is in a great place without me. I never felt like I was that central to it, to be honest.”

Yang’s unique role on the programme was one that he embraced, noting a “weird utility” to his presence. He recalled his contributions as being more like “seasoning” rather than being a critical component of the main narrative. “That’s great. I’m so lucky. I can’t believe I have a steady job in comedy. I will cherish it for the rest of my life,” he said, affirming his fond memories of being part of the SNL family.

A pivotal moment occurred when Lorne Michaels, the show’s creator and executive producer, reached out to Yang while he was enjoying a meal at the U.S. Open. Michaels expressed his desire for Yang to return to SNL for the inaugural half of Season 51 to help guide a fresh cohort of cast members. For Yang, this call was significant as it conveyed the importance of his role in the show’s evolution.

Reflecting on this moment, Yang recounted how it felt to hear from Michaels, remarking, “It was the first time I felt someone who made so many things possible for me being like, ‘I need you.’” This invitation was hard to resist. “I’m not going to turn that down,” Yang thought, prompting him to return for another season.

Yang’s tenure on *SNL* began in 2019, making history as the show’s first Chinese American cast member and one of its first openly gay stars. He initially joined the writing team a year prior, paving the way for a groundbreaking career in comedic performance. The culmination of his time on the show was marked by a poignant final episode on December 20, 2025.

During a subsequent episode of his podcast, *Las Culturistas*, Yang expressed his contentment with his decision to return for Season 51 after the summer break. He described his time on *SNL* as “one of the most meaningful experiences I ever had.” His final sketch, featuring celebrities Ariana Grande and Cher, involved a particularly heartfelt moment, where he portrayed an employee affectionately bidding farewell.

“I was sobbing at the read-through,” Yang revealed, highlighting a deeply emotional connection to his material. The sketch featured him expressing love and gratitude to his colleagues, culminating in an unprecedented moment of raw honesty. “In the sketch, I say, ‘I’ve loved everyone here, I’ve loved every single person who works here.’ I immediately broke down … because I was telling the truth.”

Yang candidly recognised the self-indulgent nature of the sketch, explaining that such moments of sincerity are rare in the fast-paced, comedic environment of *SNL*. “There were no other occasions for someone to say that at that place,” he reflected. “Because we have to be funny and ironic, and there’s a refraction of what’s being said and how it should be received.”

As Yang embarks on the next chapter of his career post-*SNL*, he carries with him not only the experiences and friendships forged during his time on the show but also a profound understanding of his identity as a performer. His journey with *Saturday Night Live* reshaped his view of comedy and community, leaving an indelible mark on both his life and the landscape of American television.

With a legacy that includes breaking barriers and championing representation in the entertainment industry, Bowen Yang’s contributions to *Saturday Night Live* have undoubtedly paved the way for future generations of comedians. Looking ahead, Yang remains optimistic about new opportunities, reaffirming his commitment to comedy that both entertains and resonates on a deeper level.