Bowen Yang announces departure from Saturday Night Live SNL midway through season 51 after episode with Ariana Grande By Luís Henrique Costa
4 min read
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Bowen Yang is leaving the cast of Saturday Night Live during season 51. The program features a presentation by Ariana Grande, her co-star in the film Wicked, and a musical performance by Cher. Representantes from the actor and the SNL production team did not comment on the matter.
The departure happens in an atypical way, as departures in the middle of the season are rare on the program. Yang joined SNL as a writer in 2018, in season 44, and joined the cast as a featured player in season 45. Ele was promoted to the main cast from season 47 onwards.
This change follows a significant cast overhaul ahead of the start of season 51 in October 2025. Vários members have left the show, including Ego Nwodim, Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Devon Walker, Emil Wakim and
Trajectory of Bowen Yang in the program
Bowen Yang quickly distinguished himself in Saturday Night Live with original characters and memorable imitations. Ele created figures such as the iceberg that sank Titanic and the baby hippopotamus Moo Deng, which went viral on social media. Suas participation in Weekend Update often generated great repercussions among the public.
The actor received nominations for Emmy for best supporting actor in a comedy series in 2021, 2022, 2024 and 2025. Ele was also nominated in the writing category for a variety series in previous years. Essa recognition reinforces his contribution to the show’s humor over the years.
- Iconic characters: Iceberg from Titanic, Chinese spy balloon and Moo Deng.
- Notable imitations: JD Vance, Fran Lebowitz and George Santos.
- Frequent collaborations: Sketches with Aidy Bryant and viral appearances.
Yang has participated in more than hundreds of sketches since his promotion to the main cast. Sua versatility allowed us to explore current and cultural themes in a creative way.
Previous exits on SNL
Mid-season departures are not common, but have occurred in past editions of the program. Cecily Strong left the cast in December 2022, during season 48. Molly Shannon, Dana Carvey, and Eddie Murphy also left before the end of their respective seasons.
Season 51 has already seen several changes to the main cast. Novos members have been added, such as Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Kam Patterson and Veronika Slowikowska. Ben Marshall, from the trio Please Don’t Destroy, was promoted to featured player.
These changes are part of a renewal announced by producer Lorne Michaels. The objective is to incorporate new talents and maintain the program’s dynamics.
Farewell episode
The December 20th episode marks the last of the year in Estados Unidos. Ariana Grande returns as host for the third time, promoting Wicked: For Good. Cher serves as musical guest, in one of her rare recent appearances on the show.
Yang plays Pfannee in the film Wicked, alongside Grande as Glinda. The coincidence makes the episode symbolic for his trajectory. Promos released shows light interactions between the trio, including references to classic works by Cher.
The program airs at 11:30 pm Eastern Time. Ele closes the 2025 calendar before the end-of-year break.
Yang’s parallel career
Bowen Yang has had projects outside of Saturday Night Live for years. Ele co-hosts the pop culture-focused podcast Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers. The program has gained popularity and awards in the audio industry.
In cinema, Yang acted in Fire Island, from 2022, and Dicks: The Musical, from 2023.
- Recent films: Wicked and its sequel.
- Series: Participações on Girls5Eva and The Other Two.
- Podcast: Las Culturistas with weekly episodes.
This diversification allows Yang to explore dramatic and comedic roles. Sua presence in film productions has grown in recent years.
Season 51 cast renewal
Season 51 brought new faces to Saturday Night Live. Ashley Padilla and Jane Wickline returned as featured players. Integrantes veterans like Kenan Thompson, Mikey Day and Sarah Sherman remain on the main roster.
The changes included the departure of members from Please Don’t Destroy. Martin Herlihy moved to the writing team. The renovation aims to balance experience with new humor.
The program maintains its structure of live sketches and weekly guests. The season started on October 4, 2025 with gradual adjustments to the team.
Legacy of Bowen Yang
Bowen Yang marked Saturday Night Live with Asian-American and LGBTQ+ representation. Ele was the first featured player nominated for Emmy in acting. Suas creations have influenced the show’s recent humorous tone.
The actor expressed in previous interviews his vision of evolution in the cast. Ele mentioned the need for space for new talent to grow. Essa perspective aligns with SNL’s long-standing dynamic.
His departure paves the way for other voices in studio 8H. The impact of his sketches remains in reruns and digital platforms.
