Big Changes at ‘SNL’: One More Cast Member Says Goodbye This Weekend

Bowen Yang is set to leave Saturday Night Live in the middle of his eighth season. His final appearance will be this Saturday, on an episode hosted by his Wicked co-star Ariana Grande, with Cher performing as the musical guest.

Yang joined SNL in 2018 as a writer during Season 44. He became a featured player in Season 45 and was promoted to the main cast starting in Season 47. During his time on the show, he earned multiple Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Comedy Actor in 2021, 2022, 2024, and 2025.

His exit comes as part of a larger wave of cast changes ahead of Season 51, which began airing on October 4. Other recent departures include Ego Nwodim, Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, Emil Wakim, and John Higgins. While leaving midseason is uncommon, it has happened before with stars like Cecily Strong, Molly Shannon, Dana Carvey, Eddie Murphy, and Norm Macdonald.

Outside of SNL, Yang co-hosts the popular pop culture podcast Las Culturistas with fellow comedian Matt Rogers. He also starred in Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens from 2020 to 2023. His stage and film work includes performances in Wicked, Wicked: For Good, The Wedding Banquet (2025), Dicks: The Musical (2023), and Fire Island (2022).

Yang’s departure marks the end of a notable chapter for SNL fans, who have enjoyed his sharp humor and unique presence for several seasons. Personally, I think Bowen brought fresh energy to the show and will be missed. Do you think SNL will feel different without him? Share your thoughts in the comments.