Bowen Yang’s departure from SNL: Matt Rogers comments on final episode with Ariana and Cher as decisive factor By Maria
4 min read
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Matt Rogers, co-host of the Las Culturistas podcast, shared details about Bowen Yang’s decision to leave Saturday Night Live after seven and a half years on the show. Yang participated in its final episode on December 20, 2025, hosted by Ariana Grande and with Cher as the musical guest. Rogers highlighted that the timing of his departure coincided with a high point in his friend’s career.
The comedian reflected on Yang’s achievements during his career on SNL. Ele mentioned the five nominations for Emmy, numerous memorable characters and participation in the program’s 50th anniversary celebration. Rogers emphasized that the final episode represented a unique opportunity, rhetorically questioning whether Yang should continue after such a highlight.
Yang joined SNL as a writer in 2018 and soon became a regular cast member. Ele stood out as the first Chinese-American actor in the main casting and for his versatile performances in iconic sketches.
Trajectory from Bowen Yang to Saturday Night Live
Bowen Yang has built a solid career on SNL over more than seven years. Ele started out contributing scripts and quickly gained ground in live sketches. Sua promotion to the repertory cast consolidated his position as one of the program’s central figures.
During this period, Yang created characters that left an impression on the public, such as Titanic’s iceberg and impressions of public figures. Ele also participated in recurring segments on Weekend Update. Essas contributions earned five nominations for Prêmio Emmy for best supporting actor in a comedy series.
- Nominated for Emmy in consecutive years for outstanding performances.
- Participation in the SNL 50th anniversary season.
- Creation of viral sketches that increased his visibility.
Yang balanced work on SNL with outside projects, including the Las Culturistas podcast alongside Matt Rogers.
Final episode and emotional moment
The last episode of Yang on SNL took place on December 20, 2025, on Nova York. Ariana Grande served as host, while Cher was the musical guest. The farewell sketch showed Yang playing an airport lounge employee on his last shift.
In this segment, he sang “Please Come Home for Christmas” alongside Grande and Cher. The moment took on an emotional tone, with Yang expressing gratitude for his time on the program. Rogers described leaving as a difficult decision, comparing it to leaving a party in full swing.
The episode recorded high ratings, being one of the most watched of the year. The presence of Grande, Yang’s colleague in the film Wicked, added a personal layer to the farewell.
Statements by Matt Rogers regarding the decision
Matt Rogers spoke about Yang’s departure during an appearance on Today with Jenna & Rogers stated that Yang not only survived but thrived in the competitive environment.
The comedian explained that the episode with Grande and Cher represented a natural high point. Ele considered that extending the stay could dilute the impact achieved. Rogers reinforced pride in the podcast partner’s trajectory.
Furthermore, he mentioned future joint projects. The two plan to return with the podcast Two Guys, Five Rings to cover the Olimpíadas of Inverno of 2026 in
Bowen Yang’s future projects
Bowen Yang continues with a busy schedule after leaving SNL. Ele starred in the films Wicked and its sequel, playing the character Pfannee alongside Ariana Grande. The success of film productions expanded his exposure in cinema.
Yang is also developing a comedy film with Matt Rogers for studio Searchlight Pictures. The plot revolves around an attempt to enter a famous nightclub in Berlim. The project includes a script and performances by the duo.
- Return of the podcast about Olimpíadas in partnership with a media network.
- Participation in awards and pop culture events.
- Expansion of Las Culturistas Culture Awards, broadcast on TV channels.
Rogers indicated that the duo is busy with multiple initiatives.
Yang’s legacy on the program
Bowen Yang’s time on SNL left a mark on diverse representation. Ele was the first Chinese-American actor in the fixed cast and one of the few openly gay people in prominent positions. Suas performances brought visibility to themes of cultural identity.
Colleagues and critics recognize his talent for elevating ordinary sketches. Yang contributed to renewing the program’s humor in recent seasons. Sua leaving opens space for new members but reinforces its lasting impact.
The comedian expressed gratitude to the SNL teams in a social media post before the final episode. Ele highlighted the value of persisting through challenging periods thanks to the support of colleagues.
Repercussion among fans and colleagues
The news of his departure generated immediate reactions among viewers. Muitos expressed surprise at the decision in the middle of the season. Colegas cast members publicly praised Yang’s contributions.
Rogers reinforced that the farewell was bitter, but necessary. Ele compared the process to recognizing the end of a positive cycle. The friendship between the two comedians remains strong, with collaborations planned.
SNL returns with new episodes in January 2026. The season continues without Yang, but with its legacy present in classic sketches.
