Bowen Yang Confirmed to Leave Saturday Night Live After Tomorrow’s Midseason Finale Featuring Ariana Grande and Cher
Saturday Night Live is preparing to say a shocking midseason farewell to one of its most prominent stars as Bowen Yang reportedly departs the series after this weekend. Multiple industry outlets confirmed on Friday that the Emmy-nominated actor will make his final appearance as a repertory player during the December 20, 2025, broadcast. This departure is considered a significant blow to the long-running NBC sketch show. The timing of the announcement is particularly notable because it coincides with a high-profile episode hosted by Ariana Grande. Grande is a close friend and co-star of Yang in the recently released Wicked films. Musical legend Cher is also set to perform during the same broadcast. This star-studded lineup will now serve as a grand send-off for a performer who helped define the latest era of the program.+3
Yang first joined the staff of Saturday Night Live as a writer in 2018 before transitioning to an on-screen role as a featured player in 2019. He made history as the first Asian American cast member to be nominated for an Emmy Award for his work on the show. Throughout his eight-season tenure, he became a reliable source of viral moments and beloved original characters. His portrayals of the Iceberg that sank the Titanic and various pop culture figures cemented his status as a fan favorite. While NBC and representatives for Yang have declined to provide an official comment, sources close to the production indicate that the exit has been expected internally for several months. The move is viewed as a rare midseason departure for a senior cast member.
The decision to leave follows a period of immense professional growth for the comedian outside of Studio 8H. In addition to his starring role in the global blockbuster Wicked, Yang continues to co-host the highly successful Las Culturistas podcast. He has also been linked to several upcoming film and television projects that require a significant time commitment. Earlier this fall, Yang expressed some personal hesitation about his longevity on the show. He admitted in an interview that he worried the audience might be growing tired of his comedic style. However, creator Lorne Michaels reportedly encouraged him to stay through the end of the calendar year to help anchor a transitional cast. This season has already seen the departures of several veteran players, including Ego Nwodim and Heidi Gardner.+1
The exit of Bowen Yang marks the end of a groundbreaking chapter for the legendary comedy institution. He was the first openly gay man to become a staple of the repertory cast and brought a unique sensibility to the Weekend Update desk. His absence will leave a substantial void in the show’s current chemistry. Fans are expecting a heavy focus on Yang during tomorrow’s sketches and the emotional “goodnights” at the end of the episode. As the show enters its winter hiatus, the production will likely look toward its newer featured players to fill the creative gap left by one of its most decorated stars. The transition reflects the ongoing evolution of Saturday Night Live as it approaches its next major milestones.
