UPDATE: Bowen Yang delivered an emotional goodbye to “Saturday Night Live” on December 16, 2023, during a final sketch that had audiences in tears. The longtime cast member shared the stage with his friend and guest host Ariana Grande, marking a poignant end to his time at the iconic sketch show.
Yang, who joined SNL as a writer in 2018 and quickly rose to become a fan favorite, played a retiring airport lounge worker on Christmas Eve, serving eggnog to travelers. Joined by Grande and musical guest Cher, Yang sang “Please Come Home for Christmas,” creating a heartfelt moment that resonated deeply with viewers.
As the sketch progressed, Yang delighted the audience by playfully spraying fellow cast member Kenan Thompson with eggnog, delivering poignant lines about moving on. “I just wanted to enjoy it for a little longer,” Yang said, visibly emotional as he concluded his performance in tears. Grande, who was a constant presence throughout the show, expressed her love for Yang, saying, “We love you so much.”
The episode closed with a touching tribute to the late director Rob Reiner, followed by a cast curtain call that left fans reflecting on Yang’s impactful journey. Over his tenure, Yang garnered five Emmy nominations and became a beloved figure in the SNL community.
In an Instagram post earlier today, Yang shared his gratitude: “I loved working at SNL, and most of all I loved the people.” He reflected on the challenges of the past few years, stating, “I was there at a time when many things in the world started to seem futile, but working at 30 Rock taught me the value in showing up anyway when people make it worthwhile.”
The farewell comes after a significant summer exodus from SNL, which saw cast members like Ego Nwodim and Heidi Gardner depart. Yang had hinted at his departure in previous interviews but ultimately decided to stay after receiving encouragement from SNL creator Lorne Michaels, who told him, “You have more to do.”
Yang’s departure mid-season is not unprecedented; previous cast members, including Cecily Strong, have made similar exits. His unique characters, such as the Titanic iceberg and George Santos, earned him breakout status, while his wit and charm made him a standout during the show’s numerous sketches.
The night also featured Grande’s comedic opening monologue, where she parodied “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” setting an upbeat tone for the evening. Yang’s presence was a highlight, culminating in a dance class sketch and a pre-recorded segment inspired by “Home Alone,” showcasing their strong comedic chemistry.
As Yang moves on to other projects, including his roles in “Wicked” and “Dicks: The Musical,” fans are left to reminisce about his contributions to SNL. He has also been active in the podcast scene, co-hosting “Las Culturistas” and engaging audiences with pop culture commentary.
Looking ahead, Yang’s future projects promise to keep him in the spotlight, as he continues to evolve as a performer. His last appearance on SNL not only marks the end of an era for the cast but also leaves a lasting legacy for fans who cherished his work.
Stay tuned for more updates on Yang’s next steps and the evolving landscape of SNL as it prepares for future seasons.
