Bowen Yang Reportedly Leaving SNL After Eight Seasons in Major Cast Shake-Up

Saturday Night Live may soon lose one of its brightest stars. Bowen Yang is reportedly set to exit the iconic comedy show after eight seasons. Multiple outlets report his final episode will air on December 20, 2024.

This news follows the departures of other cast members ahead of the show’s 51st season. According to People, Yang had previously hinted that his time on the show might be ending soon. Neither SNL nor Yang’s representatives have officially confirmed the news.

A Look Back at a Groundbreaking Tenure

Bowen Yang joined the SNL cast during its 45th season. He quickly became a fan favorite with memorable characters like the iceberg that sank the Titanic. His recurring “Bowen’s Straight” sketch also became a viral hit.

His tenure has been both groundbreaking and physically demanding. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Yang described the exhausting schedule. He said the work wore him down on a “somatic level” during his time filming the movie *Wicked* concurrently.

The reported final show features a dream lineup for Yang. Ariana Grande will host, and Cher will be the musical guest. Yang once told E! News that Cher was his dream SNL host.

Understanding the Broader Cast Transition

Yang’s potential exit is part of a larger cast transition period for SNL. Fellow featured players Ego Nwodim, Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim also departed recently. This opens the door for new talent in the coming season.

For longtime viewers, Yang’s departure marks the end of a significant era. He brought a unique and celebrated voice to the show’s sketches. His potential final episode is poised to be a major television event for comedy fans.

The potential departure of Bowen Yang from SNL represents a major shift for the long-running show. His final episode, featuring major stars, promises to be a memorable send-off for a beloved cast member.

Info at your fingertips

Is Bowen Yang definitely leaving Saturday Night Live?

As of now, it has not been officially confirmed. Multiple news outlets are reporting his planned departure, but representatives for both SNL and Yang have not issued statements. The situation is based on reports from sources familiar with the matter.

When would Bowen Yang’s last SNL episode air?

Reports indicate his final episode is scheduled for December 20, 2024. This episode will be hosted by Ariana Grande with musical guest Cher. It would conclude his eighth season with the show.

Why would Bowen Yang leave SNL?

Yang hinted at a future departure in an April interview with People. He spoke about making way for new cast members and exploring life after the show. He also cited the intense physical and mental toll of the show’s demanding schedule.

Who else recently left the SNL cast?

Ahead of season 51, cast members Ego Nwodim, Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, and Emil Wakim also departed. This marks a significant period of change for the show’s ensemble lineup.

What were some of Bowen Yang’s most famous SNL characters?

He was renowned for playing the iceberg from the Titanic, a Hinge date named Garrett, and for his “Bowen’s Straight” sketch. He also made frequent appearances on the show’s “Weekend Update” segment.