Bowen Yang’s recent exit from Saturday Night Live marks the end of a significant chapter for the beloved cast member after seven-and-a-half years on the iconic sketch comedy show. Yang, who has gained recognition for his memorable characters and comedic contributions, bid an emotional farewell during his final episode that featured pop sensation Ariana Grande and music legend Cher.
Matt Rogers, co-host of the Las Culturistas podcast, shared insights on Yang’s departure during an appearance on TODAY with Jenna & Friends. Reflecting on Yang’s impressive tenure, Rogers expressed that many were caught off guard by his decision to leave, noting the comedian’s substantial accomplishments, including five Emmy nominations and a number of unforgettable sketches. He highlighted Yang’s last episode, which allowed the comedian to not only showcase his talent but also share his love for the show.
In a heartfelt moment, Yang, 35, played a JFK Delta One Lounge employee in his farewell sketch, where he reminisced about the sights and experiences from his time on SNL, even referencing a recent visit from actor Josh O’Connor. Rogers, who has closely followed Yang’s journey since their early days together on the podcast, reflected on the challenges Yang overcame to secure his place on the show, including a lengthy audition process and a year as a writer before joining the cast.
With numerous recent cast departures leading into the new season of SNL, many anticipated Yang’s continued presence on the show. He even had discussions with show creator Lorne Michaels about future opportunities. However, Yang’s burgeoning star power, reflected in the acclaim for his outlandish characters and his rising profile through various projects, likely influenced his decision to move on. His unique creations, such as the memorable “Iceberg Who Sank the Titanic” and the beloved character Moo Deng, have endeared him to fans and critics alike, making him the first featured player in SNL history to earn multiple Emmy nominations for acting.
In addition to his impressive SNL run, Yang has been garnering attention for his role in the upcoming Wicked film and the success of the Las Culturistas podcast, which is experiencing a surge in popularity. Now, Yang and Rogers are set to bring their creativity and camaraderie to a new venture with the upcoming second season of their Olympics-themed podcast, Two Guys, Five Rings.
As Yang embarks on this new chapter of his career, his departure from SNL serves as a reminder of the impact he has made on the show and the comedy landscape. Fans can look forward to seeing how Yang continues to evolve and bring joy through his future projects.