Bowen Yang Reflects on Harmful Conversion Therapy Experience in Candid Interview

The SNL star opens up about his teenage ordeal, parental pressures, and the cultural disconnect surrounding his LGBTQ+ identity.

Bowen Yang shared details of his teenage experience with gay conversion therapy during an interview with Willie Geist, describing it as 'painful and detrimental.'
Yang revealed that his parents, unfamiliar with LGBTQ+ issues, gave him an ultimatum to undergo therapy in exchange for attending New York University.
He reflected on the cultural disconnect his parents faced, emphasizing their lack of context for understanding his sexual orientation.
Yang acknowledged the long-term emotional impact of the therapy and the healing process he underwent in the years following.
By speaking out, Yang joins a growing number of LGBTQ+ public figures advocating for the end of conversion therapy and greater acceptance.