BREAKING: Bowen Yang is set to leave the cast of Saturday Night Live (SNL) this December, just after the highly anticipated special episode featuring Ariana Grande and Cher as the musical guest. This departure marks the end of his impressive seven-year tenure that began in 2018.
Yang’s exit comes amid significant buzz for this weekend’s episode, where he, Grande, and Cher engage in a comedic skit that pays tribute to Cher’s iconic performance in the 1987 film Moonstruck. In a recent promo, Yang enthusiastically welcomes Grande, exclaiming, “Ari, I’m so happy to have you here,” to which Grande replies, “And I’m so happy to be back.” The comedic moment escalates as Cher delivers a memorable double slap to both stars, declaring, “Snap out of it!” The trio’s chemistry has heightened excitement for the upcoming broadcast.
According to Deadline, Yang will officially step away from SNL following the episode with Grande and Cher. His decision to depart mid-season is not entirely unexpected; earlier this year, Yang expressed concerns about audience fatigue in an interview with People, stating, “I feel the audience is maybe getting sick of me.” His time on SNL has been marked by viral sketches and significant achievements, including an Emmy nomination and roles in major projects like the queer film Bros and the upcoming Wicked films.
As Yang prepares to conclude his journey with SNL, fans and cast members alike are left to reflect on his impactful contributions to the show. Although he has not formally commented on his departure, the excitement surrounding this weekend’s episode promises to be a fitting farewell.
Viewers are encouraged to tune in for the special episode airing on Saturday, December 2, 2023, to witness Yang’s final performance on the iconic stage. This pivotal moment not only marks a significant transition for Yang but also highlights the enduring legacy of SNL as a platform for emerging talent.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops, and join the conversation on social media to share your thoughts about Yang’s departure and the upcoming episode.