Bowen Yang's Emotional Farewell to SNL: Cher's Approval & Future Prospects

Bowen Yang's unforgettable goodbye on SNL

Bowen Yang, a groundbreaking presence as SNL's first Chinese-American cast member, gave us a goodbye we won't forget. In a moment that felt both heartwarming and historic, Cher herself paid tribute on air. Since joining in 2018 as part  of SNL's writing team, Yang's comedic genius and vivacious spirit have left a lasting impact.

Cher's heartfelt shoutout

When you're celebrated on your farewell by Cher, you know you've made your mark. The iconic superstar, beloved by many in and beyond LGBTQ+ circles, commented on Yang's flair: "Well, everyone thought you were a little bit too gay," she quipped. "But you know what? You're perfect." And with that, she summed up how much Yang's unapologetic, unique style has been cherished on SNL.

Bowen Yang's career highlights

Over his seven years on SNL, Bowen Yang has become a standout in entertainment. He's snagged five Primetime Emmy nominations, making him a record-breaking Asian male performer in Emmy history. From his unforgettable George Santos/Kitara Ravache skits, his whimsical Iceberg that sunk Titanic, all while tackling social issues with humor in roles like Moo Deng, a pygmy hippo — Yang's range and creativity have shone through.

But it's not just SNL. Yang has taken on roles in films like "Fire Island" and "Bros," and he has exciting projects lined up, like "Wicked" and its sequel. He co-hosts "Las Culturistas," a beloved podcast with Matt Rogers, who he's also teaming up with on a Searchlight Pictures film. His contributions and advocacy have made him a vital voice in entertainment.

A farewell with a side order

His farewell episode was a delightful blend, brimming with laughter and nostalgia. In one final sketch with Cher and Ariana Grande, his character, a Delta Air Lines worker at JFK's Sky Club lounge, was wrapping up his last day. "Sorry, my machine's kind breaking down, so I'm closing my station," he said. "This's my last shift. Yeah, it's sad. I'm gonna miss everything about this place." It was a poignant scene that captured his bittersweet departure with a touch that only Yang could deliver.

Ariana Grande's character, sweetie Rhonda, stood in as a voice from fans and audiences. She remarked, "I wish you were home, but I'm so proud. All that eggnog you've made. Some was great. Some... not so much.” But Yang took it in stride, likening himself humorously: "I think eggnog's like me. Not everyone's taste, but my kindred spirits like it too."

The sketch was his chance not just at humor, but gratitude. "Oh Rhonda, I should have come home earlier," he admitted. "I feel so lucky I got this experience. Especially with all these incredible people. They've been so good, especially my boss... Any success I have after this belongs partly here."

What's ahead?

Before he took his final bow, Yang shared some heartfelt thoughts on Instagram. "I was there when everything seemed bleak, but working at 30 Rock taught me showing up matters, especially when people make it worthwhile," he wrote. It's a testament not just about career lessons, but about resilience and community — themes central in his journey.

Leaving SNL isn't just an end—it opens new doors. Yang looks forward, grateful, ready, and a bit uncertain—but isn't that part and parcel with any new journey? As he wrote, "The show doesn't go on because it's ready," he noted with a wink, "but shiiiiT, I hope I am."

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