Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Bowen Yang Leaves SNL Midseason With Tearful On-Air Farewell

The exit caps seven years defined by Emmy nominations alongside a barrier‑breaking role as the show’s first ChineseAmerican cast member.

Overview

  • Yang confirmed his departure in a reflective Instagram post expressing gratitude for colleagues, audiences and SNL creator Lorne Michaels.
  • His final episode aired December 20 with Ariana Grande hosting and Cher as the musical guest.
  • In a meta Delta One lounge sketch, he delivered an emotional out-of-character goodbye, saying he felt lucky to have worked on the show.
  • Ariana Grande shared behind-the-scenes tributes after the broadcast, while castmate Ashley Padilla posted a personal farewell on Instagram.
  • Yang joined SNL as a writer in 2018, became a featured player in 2019, later moved to the repertory cast, and earned multiple Emmy nominations.