Bowen Yang on Saturday Night Live will be no more after the Saturday, December 20, episode. This clearly makes the episode even more worth watching as one will wonder how Yang will say his goodbye, but it will also be difficult to see him say so long.
For nearly seven years, Yang has been one of the best parts of SNL. He is naturally funny, sure, but he has also been able to use his excellent musical skills during different sketches, too. He can often intertwine with a host who might also be a musical artist, and will no doubt do the same on Saturday as the show will be hosted by Wicked co-star Ariana Grande.
It is likely no coincidence that Yang is leaving as Grande hosts. Moreover, the brilliant comedian isn't leaving suddenly. The iconic sketch show has known since before this season began that Yang would be leaving mid-season, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
Bowen Yang will exit Saturday Night Live for good on December 20
Yang's exit from the show is also his decision, which makes sense. He has always had the kind of presence that would surpass the Saturday night show. He has been excellent in both the Wicked films he has appeared in, and his Dicks: The Musical is an underrated gem that all adults (not children) should see.
The comedian (who one can easily assume would be excellent in dramatic turns as well) joined Saturday Night Live in 2018 as a writer, and he became a featured player in 2021. Some of his more notable turns include acting as the iceberg that sank the Titanic, the gay Oompa-Loompa during the Weekend Update, the long-haired doctor who says unexpected things, and his impression of George Santos.
Ultimately, the greater viewing audience and music lovers will be better off when Bowen Yang leaves SNL. This will allow him to expand his presence in culture in general, as he is an extremely hot name among potential roles in Hollywood.
One can hope some of those include musicals because Yang has an excellent voice, but his charisma translates well into musicals. SNL's loss is the film industry's gain.