BREAKING: Bowen Yang has just announced that he will continue his work on Saturday Night Live (SNL) despite a significant cast exodus ahead of the show’s 51st season. In an emotional revelation, Yang shared that SNL creator Lorne Michaels assured him, “You have more to do,” during an event at the One House Toast to the Emmys on July 15, 2023.
Yang’s comments come as SNL grapples with a wave of departures, including fan-favorite Ego Nwodim, who confirmed her exit after seven seasons. The show is undergoing a major transformation, with Michaels, aged 80, indicating a “pressure to reinvent” the long-running series.
“I’ve always gone by the instinct of, do I have more to do? And I feel like I do,” Yang stated. His emotional connection to SNL is evident as he expressed gratitude towards Michaels, saying, “That man has changed my life, and I owe a lot of my life to that show.”
As he gears up for his sixth season, Yang revealed he no longer approaches SNL with a predetermined plan. “I let that go and I think it served me well,” he explained. “If there’s any place to do that, it’s SNL, where it’s week to week.”
Yang acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the current changes, admitting he is “absolutely” emotional about bidding farewell to longtime co-stars. However, he respects their decisions, recognizing SNL as a “boot camp” that prepares cast members for future opportunities. “It’s always a transitional place,” he noted.
The departures come as SNL prepares to welcome new talent, including Tommy Brennan, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall, Kam Patterson, and Veronika Slowikowska for the upcoming season. Yang expressed excitement for what these new cast members will bring, stating, “I’m excited for the new cast.”
As SNL fans process this shake-up, Yang’s commitment and enthusiasm for the show remain clear. With the premiere of Season 51 on the horizon, viewers can expect fresh content and dynamic performances as the show navigates this pivotal moment in its history.
Stay tuned for more updates as the cast evolves and new episodes approach.
