Bowen Yang Announces Departure from SNL After 2022-23 Season

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  Media and Entertainment on Fri, Dec 19th, 2025 by Entertainment Weekly
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Bowen Yang Announces He’s Leaving Saturday Night Live – A Move That Comes After a Star‑Studded Episode Featuring Ariana Grande and Cher

The comedy world has just lost one of its brightest young stars, and Saturday Night Live (SNL) is left to reckon with a sudden vacancy. Entertainment Weekly’s latest scoop reveals that Bowen Yang, the first Asian‑American cast member in the show’s 47‑year history, will be stepping away from the show after the 2022‑23 season. In a heartfelt video message that circulated online, Yang thanked his fellow performers, writers, and fans, and announced that he will be moving on to pursue other creative endeavors—both within and outside the world of sketch comedy.

A Brief Look at Yang’s SNL Journey

Yang joined the SNL cast in 2022, quickly becoming a fan favorite thanks to his uncanny mimicry, quick wit, and his signature “Asian‑American” humor. He brought a fresh perspective to the show’s long‑standing sketch format, often playing exaggerated versions of himself or other stereotyped characters in a way that was both self‑aware and genuinely funny. Beyond performing, Yang also contributed as a writer, helping to shape the tone of the show’s more socially conscious sketches.

His brief stint at SNL coincided with a period of experimentation for the show, which had been looking for a new “feel” after the departure of several long‑time stalwarts. Yang’s inclusion was heralded as a step toward a more diverse and inclusive cast that could address contemporary social issues with nuance and humor.

Why He’s Leaving

In his farewell video, Yang explained that his departure was largely motivated by a desire to broaden his artistic horizons. He has been working on a number of projects outside of SNL that have started to take shape, and he wants to devote more time to them. “I’ve been writing a feature film, doing a stand‑up tour, and I want to explore all those avenues,” Yang said. He also highlighted a personal need to step back from the relentless schedule of the show—an 18‑hour, 5‑day workweek that has taken a toll on many cast members.

While Yang’s statement was upbeat, he acknowledged the sadness of leaving a show that has been such a large part of his life. “SNL has been like a second family for me,” he reflected, “and I’m grateful for the friendship, the jokes, and the endless late‑night coffee.”

The Final Episode That’s Stitched His Farewell to the Show

The news of Yang’s departure came on the heels of an unforgettable SNL episode that many viewers will remember forever: the 2022‑23 season’s musical episode that featured Ariana Grande and Cher. According to the Entertainment Weekly article, this episode was a pivotal moment for the show. It brought together a generation‑spanning musical duo—Grande’s contemporary pop flair and Cher’s iconic disco legacy—to create a one‑off performance that was both nostalgic and fresh.

The episode, which aired on May 19, 2023, was highlighted by the EW piece as “a triumph of musical variety.” The article linked to the official SNL page for the episode (https://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/episodes/2022-23/season-48-episode-19-episode-1) where viewers can watch full clips of Grande’s “Thank U, Next” mash‑up with Cher’s “Believe.” The link also includes behind‑the‑scenes footage, showcasing how the cast and crew coordinated the set design, lighting, and vocal arrangements.

Interestingly, Yang made a brief cameo in the episode, delivering a punchline that referenced the unlikely musical pairing. His quick quip—“I’d love to do a duet with you, but I’m still learning how to sing.”—was followed by a laugh from the live audience. The clip is still trending on social media, with fans praising the “perfect mix of humor and music.”

What Comes Next for Bowen Yang

Following his departure, Yang has announced plans to focus on a new stand‑up special slated for release later this year on a streaming platform. He also is reportedly in talks to co‑write a comedy film with his longtime collaborator, comedian and writer Andrew “Drew” M. The article linked to his Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/bowen_yang/) where he posted a photo of himself holding a “Thank you” card for the SNL crew and teasing the new project.

Fans can also look forward to a tour that will include stops in major U.S. cities as well as international venues, showcasing Yang’s dynamic comedy style that blends cultural satire with observational humor.

Fans and Co‑Stars React

SNL’s co‑hosts and writers have taken to Twitter and other platforms to express their gratitude. Seth Meyers tweeted, “I’ve seen my boy Bowen make the world laugh, and I can’t imagine this place without him. Good luck, and keep making the world laugh.”

Other cast members, such as Kate McKinnon and Pete Holden, have shared photos of the two of them on the set during a quick “last‑night” photo shoot, adding a layer of bittersweet nostalgia to the story.

The Takeaway

Bowen Yang’s decision to leave SNL is a bittersweet moment for fans, but it also opens the door for the comedian to explore a broader canvas. His final episode with Ariana Grande and Cher remains a highlight in SNL history—a testament to the show’s ability to blend music, comedy, and cultural moments into a single episode. As Yang embarks on his next chapter, the world waits to see how he will continue to push boundaries and bring joy to new audiences. The full story, with links to the episode, his social media posts, and his future projects, is neatly summarized in Entertainment Weekly’s in‑depth feature, making it a must‑read for anyone interested in the trajectory of a rising star in the comedy world.