Bowen Yang to Exit SNL Mid-Season, Final Episode Airs This Saturday

Bowen Yang is set to leave Saturday Night Live in the middle of its current season, bringing an end to his long and highly successful run on the iconic sketch comedy show. His departure marks a major moment for the long-running NBC series, where Yang has been one of the most recognizable and influential performers in recent years.

According to Variety, Yang’s final appearance as an SNL cast member will air this Saturday. The episode will be hosted by pop star and actress Ariana Grande, Yang’s co-star from the upcoming film Wicked. Legendary singer Cher will appear as the musical guest, making the episode a high-profile farewell for the comedian.

Yang, 35, first joined Saturday Night Live in September 2018 as part of the writing staff ahead of the show’s 44th season. His sharp humor and unique voice quickly stood out behind the scenes. Just one year later, in 2019, he was promoted to an on-screen cast member for Season 45. From there, Yang rapidly became one of the show’s most popular and talked-about performers, known for his bold characters and timely political and cultural satire.

Earlier this year, Yang hinted that his time on SNL might be coming to an end. In an interview with People magazine in April, he reflected on the evolving nature of the show. He explained that SNL is a “living” platform that constantly welcomes new talent, and that long-serving cast members eventually need to make room for others. While he said he did not yet know when he would step away, his comments suggested that an exit was inevitable.

During his tenure on Saturday Night Live, Yang received widespread critical acclaim. He earned Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2021, 2022, 2024 and 2025, highlighting his consistent impact on the show. In 2019, he also received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series, recognizing his work as both a performer and a writer.

Yang now joins a list of cast members who have exited SNL mid-season. Actress Cecily Strong previously left the show in December 2022 during Season 48. His departure also comes amid a major cast shake-up announced earlier this year.

Several other performers have confirmed they will not be returning to the show. Devon Walker announced his exit after three seasons in an Instagram post, while Ego Nwodim, Emil Wakim, Michael Longfellow and Heidi Gardner have also revealed their departures.

Bowen Yang’s exit marks the end of an important chapter for Saturday Night Live. As fans prepare to watch his final performance this weekend, many are reflecting on his lasting contribution to the show and his role in shaping a new era of SNL comedy.