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Bowen Yang Opens Up About Emotional SNL Exit and Pursuit of Creative Freedom

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 10:08 GMT by Us Weekly

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Bowen Yang Reflects on Emotional SNL Exit, Finding Freedom and Future Plans

Bowen Yang’s departure from Saturday Night Live after six seasons was a deeply emotional one, and he’s been increasingly open about the complex feelings surrounding it. A recent appearance on the Las Culturistas podcast, detailed extensively by US Magazine, provided a particularly poignant look into his decision, the outpouring of support he received, and his excitement for what lies ahead. Yang’s exit, announced in late April 2023, came alongside those of longtime cast members Kate McKinnon and Kristen Wiig, marking a significant shift for the iconic show. While many speculated about reasons, Yang’s conversation reveals a blend of burnout, a desire for creative control, and a long-awaited opportunity to prioritize his own projects.

The core of Yang’s emotional revelation centered around his final performance on the May 20th, 2023 episode. He confessed to crying during his final “Weekend Update” appearance, specifically while portraying the character of The Chinese Menu. This wasn't just a sentimental farewell to a beloved bit – it was the realization that he was leaving behind a space that, while formative, had begun to feel constricting.

“I was crying because it was like, ‘Oh, this is the last time I’m going to do this,’” Yang explained on the podcast. He noted that the character, created with Megan Thee Stallion, was one he deeply enjoyed, but also one that represented the demanding, rapid-fire nature of SNL. He felt a deep sense of responsibility to deliver each week, often feeling the weight of representing an entire community with his performances. This pressure, coupled with the exhaustion of the show's rigorous schedule, ultimately contributed to his decision to leave.

The US Magazine article highlights that Yang’s decision wasn't made lightly. He hadn't initially planned to announce his departure simultaneously with McKinnon and Wiig, but the timing ultimately felt right. He described the experience as a “relief,” acknowledging that he’d been “building to it” for a while. It wasn't a dislike of the show itself, but a need to reclaim his time and energy. He pointed to the demanding nature of SNL – writing, rehearsing, and performing all within a 24-hour window – as unsustainable long-term, especially when juggling other potential opportunities.

Yang’s move represents a larger trend within SNL. Recent years have seen a growing number of cast members leaving after shorter tenures than in previous eras. This has sparked conversations about the show's demanding workload and the challenges of maintaining creativity while balancing personal and professional life. While SNL has always been a launching pad for comedic talent, the modern landscape offers more diverse platforms for performers to pursue their own projects.

Following the announcement, Yang received an outpouring of support, particularly from the AAPI community. He described the messages he received as deeply moving, detailing how his representation on SNL had meant so much to viewers. This connection was particularly important to him, and recognizing the impact he had made solidified his decision to step down and focus on work where he could authentically express his voice and continue representing his community on his own terms.

So, what's next for Bowen Yang? He's actively pursuing several projects. He's currently developing a film with Searchlight Pictures (as reported by Deadline in May 2023) and has a first-look deal with HBO. He also plans to focus on his podcast, Las Culturistas, co-hosted with Matt Rogers, which has gained significant popularity in recent years. This podcast provides him a platform for longer-form, unfiltered conversations, a stark contrast to the tightly controlled environment of live television.

Beyond specific projects, Yang expressed a desire to explore different creative avenues. He's keen to utilize his comedic talents in a more self-directed capacity, potentially delving into writing and producing. He wants to be “more in control of the narrative” and focus on projects that genuinely excite him.

In essence, Bowen Yang's departure from SNL isn't a rejection of the show, but a step towards self-discovery and creative freedom. He’s leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking representation and memorable characters, and stepping into a future brimming with potential. His willingness to openly discuss the challenges and rewards of his time on SNL offers a valuable insight into the pressures of the entertainment industry and the importance of prioritizing personal well-being. His story underscores the evolving landscape of comedy and the increasing desire for performers to forge their own paths, both on and off the screen.