Bowen Yang, the groundbreaking comedian and actor, recently opened up about his final days at Saturday Night Live (SNL), sharing the emotional journey of leaving the iconic sketch comedy show after a seven-year tenure. The former SNL cast member reflected on his experiences during the latest episode of Las Culturistas, hosted alongside Matt Rogers on January 7, 2026.

Bowen Yang’s Farewell: A Seven-Year Journey Comes to an End

Yang, 35, officially marked his departure from SNL on December 20, 2025, after a remarkable run that saw him become one of the show’s most beloved and influential cast members. Known for his sharp wit, fearless comedic timing, and groundbreaking representation as one of SNL’s first openly gay and Chinese American stars, Yang left an indelible mark on the show.

During the Las Culturistas podcast, Yang compared his final send-off on SNL to “landing the Mars rover on a square foot of terrain,” highlighting the precision, pressure, and emotional weight of his final week.

Emotional Moments During His Final Sketch

One of Yang’s last sketches featured Ariana Grande and Cher, where he played a Delta One Lounge employee working his final shift—a direct nod to his own departure. Reflecting on the read-through of the sketch, Yang admitted,

“I was sobbing at the read-through. In the sketch, I say, ‘I’ve loved everyone here, I’ve loved every single person who works here.’ I immediately broke down… because I was telling the truth.”

Yang acknowledged that the sketch was “self-indulgent” but also meaningful, allowing him to express gratitude toward his colleagues in a moment that was otherwise filled with humor, irony, and high stakes.

Learning Under Pressure at SNL

During the podcast, Yang shared insights into the intense environment of SNL, explaining that the show taught him “how to work under what seems like an immense amount of pressure” and how to accept the unpredictability of live television.

“Down to the audience response to a joke. Having that and going into it til’ like 12:55 a.m., not being sure if that sketch was gonna go to air, there’s a million reasons it could get cut, nothing is guaranteed,” Yang said.

He added that this experience provided valuable life lessons: making peace with uncertainty, thriving under pressure, and appreciating the fleeting nature of live comedy.

Advice and Support from SNL Legends

Yang also reflected on guidance from SNL alumni. Amy Poehler, for example, offered Yang a heartfelt piece of advice at an afterparty:

“We’re all waiting for you on the other side.”

This encouragement, along with support from Aidy Bryant and other cast members, underscored the deep sense of community and mentorship Yang experienced during his time at SNL.

A Historic and Meaningful Legacy

Yang’s SNL tenure was historic in many ways. Joining the cast in 2019, he became the first Chinese American cast member and one of the show’s first openly gay stars. Over seven seasons, he earned five Emmy nominations and built a reputation as a fearless and innovative comedian.

Reflecting on his final days, Yang said:

“I thought, I’m so lucky that I ever got to work here. And I’m so lucky that I get to make this little statement that’s like barely veiled where I’m like, ‘I love you all.’ I’m so lucky.”

He added that while the show is highly demanding, it remains one of the most meaningful experiences of his life.

Looking Forward

Leaving SNL now gives Yang the freedom to focus on new creative projects, with his years on the show serving as both a formative training ground and a career highlight. As he continues his journey in comedy, acting, and beyond, his legacy at SNL as a trailblazer and fan-favorite cast member is firmly established.