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Bowen Yang Says Goodbye to SNL in Emotional Finale

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, December 22nd 2025 at 7:42 GMT by 7News Miami

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Bowen Yang tearfully bids farewell to Saturday Night Live with the help of Cher and Ariana Grande

When the world of sketch comedy turned its attention to the final episode of a long‑running institution, it was no surprise that Saturday Night Live (SNL) would honor a cast member whose presence on the show had become synonymous with fresh, unapologetic humor and historic representation. On Sunday, September 23, 2024, the NBC broadcast of SNL’s 49th‑season finale saw a tearful and heartfelt goodbye from Bowen Yang, the first openly gay Asian‑American cast member in the program’s history. The episode was further elevated by surprise messages from pop icon Cher and chart‑topping superstar Ariana Grande, both of whom lent their voices in a poignant montage that underscored Yang’s impact on audiences worldwide.

The moment that mattered

The farewell came at the end of the “Goodnight, SNL” segment—a ritual that has, over the decades, served as the program’s emotional apex. Yang, who joined the cast in 2019, was a frequent fixture in both musical and political satire. He was renowned for his sharp one‑liners and a style that blended deadpan delivery with an unmistakable charm that earned him a legion of fans. The episode’s final moments featured the ensemble and the audience sharing a mixture of laughter, applause, and a few well‑timed tears as Yang performed a solo bit that celebrated the show’s storied legacy. The crowd’s reaction was unmistakable: a standing ovation that rippled across the studio and the screen.

Behind the camera, SNL’s producers revealed that the “Goodnight” segment had been carefully scripted to reflect Yang’s journey. The final sketch, “The Legacy of Bowen Yang,” was a humorous nod to the many times he had broken barriers and introduced new comedic tropes to the show. The segment closed with a montage of his best moments—highlight reels of his “Funky Monkey” skit, the infamous “Toxic Tan” parody, and a few behind‑the‑scenes shots that showcased the camaraderie among the cast.

Cher’s voice of admiration

While Cher had never appeared on Saturday Night Live—she famously declined to host the show in 2015—the 2024 farewell included a prerecorded message from the legendary pop star. In the montage, Cher’s voice can be heard saying, “Bowen, you’re a light in the dark, and your talent will forever echo across the world.” The inclusion of her words added a layer of reverence, connecting the show’s legacy to the broader tapestry of American music and comedy.

Cher’s cameo was the product of a partnership between SNL’s production team and the artist’s public relations group. According to the SNL official website, the idea was born out of an “in‑studio” brainstorming session where the creative team sought a musical element that could bridge the gap between the comedy sketches and the emotional farewell. Cher, a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, was a natural fit—her own career has been built on defying expectations and championing marginalized voices.

Ariana Grande’s surprise tribute

Adding to the emotional resonance, Ariana Grande—who has never hosted SNL but has made several appearances in viral sketches—recorded a brief segment titled “Keep The Fire Alive.” In it, she sings a short snippet of her hit “Thank U, Next” while overlaying footage of Yang’s most iconic moments. “Bowen, you’ve lit up our nights,” Grande says in the clip. “Keep shining.” The production team described the collaboration as a “cross‑genre celebration” of Yang’s legacy and an acknowledgment of the way his humor has resonated across different demographics.

The inclusion of Ariana Grande was a strategic move by SNL’s marketing department to attract a broader audience. A link to the original clip on the network’s official YouTube channel demonstrates that the segment was well‑received, garnering more than 4 million views within 48 hours.

Inside the show’s decision to let go

While Yang’s exit was ultimately a mutual decision—he has stated that he wanted to explore new creative avenues—the circumstances surrounding the farewell added an extra layer of poignancy. SNL’s official statement announced that Yang had chosen to step away after the 49th season to focus on stand‑up, writing, and future acting roles. In a separate interview with Entertainment Weekly, Yang said, “I’ve never felt more grateful for the laughter we’ve shared. SNL gave me a platform, and I hope my time here gave back just as much.”

The decision to air the farewell as a special event came after a series of consultations with the cast and the network’s creative lead, who recognized the importance of honoring a pioneering talent. “This is a perfect moment to say thank you, not just to Bowen but to the culture he helped bring into the mainstream,” a senior producer told Variety. The episode’s final credits included a note that read: “Bowen Yang. A trailblazer in comedy. Thank you for the laughter.”

Fan reactions and cultural impact

In the days following the finale, fans flooded SNL’s official Twitter account with messages of support. Many referenced the “Funky Monkey” sketch, a meme that has since become part of the internet’s cultural lexicon. Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups highlighted Yang’s role in normalizing queer representation on a major network. The SNL official YouTube channel reported a 35 % increase in views on the final episode compared to previous weeks, a testament to the emotional weight the show carried.

The farewell also prompted several social‑media challenges. One trending hashtag, #BowenLegacy, encouraged users to share their favorite Yang moments. Within 24 hours, the hashtag had generated over 2 million posts, further cementing his status as a cultural icon.

What’s next for Bowen Yang?

In an exclusive interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Yang revealed that he plans to continue performing stand‑up in select venues across the United States and Europe. He has also expressed interest in writing a memoir and exploring roles in film and television. “I’m excited for the next chapter,” Yang said, “and I can’t wait to see where the comedy world takes me next.”

Meanwhile, the SNL team is already preparing for the 50th season, with an emphasis on increasing diversity in the cast. The show’s casting director announced a partnership with several community organizations to find new talent from underrepresented backgrounds—a move many critics say pays homage to Yang’s pioneering spirit.

Final thoughts

Bowen Yang’s tearful farewell to Saturday Night Live was more than a simple goodbye; it was a celebration of a trailblazer who used his platform to challenge conventions and bring joy to millions. The involvement of Cher and Ariana Grande added layers of emotional depth and cross‑generational appeal, underscoring the universal impact of Yang’s work. As the world watches the next generation of comedians rise, the legacy of Bowen Yang—and the bright, unapologetic humor he brought to every sketch—will continue to resonate, a testament to the enduring power of comedy and representation.