Bowen Yang has announced he will not be in the studio for the upcoming episode of Saturday Night Live on October 18. The episode features Sabrina Carpenter, who will host and also serve as the musical guest for the night.
Yang took to Instagram to share his regrets about missing the live show, expressing enthusiasm for Carpenter, labeling her as “amazing.” Alongside his message, he posted a picturesque photo of a palm tree. While he won’t be present in the studio audience, a source confirmed that Yang had previously filmed a pre-taped segment for the episode, ensuring fans will still get to see him.
Rumors circulated that Yang might reprise his role as the disgraced politician George Santos, especially since Santos was recently released from prison after his sentence was commuted by former President Donald Trump. Yang has become well-known for his portrayal of Santos on SNL, often highlighting the politician’s flair for exaggeration. His character mockingly captured Santos’s persona, especially following Santos’s ousting from the House of Representatives, during which Yang performed a rendition of Elton John’s “Candle in the Wind.”
Yang’s absence from SNL this week is due to prior commitments, as he is set to receive the Vantage Award from the Academy Museum during a gala in Los Angeles on the same evening. The museum has recognized Yang as a “trailblazer bringing laughter, heart, and representation to the screen,” alongside other honorees including Penélope Cruz and Bruce Springsteen.
Having joined SNL as a writer in 2018, Yang has become a notable presence on the show, now entering his seventh season as a cast member. On this episode, Carpenter will also be making history as the first host and musical guest combo for Season 51, adding further excitement to the night’s programming.
Saturday Night Live continues to entertain audiences every Saturday at 11:30 p.m. ET/8:30 p.m. PT on NBC and Peacock, promising a blend of humor and fresh talent.