Bowen Yang Bids Tearful Farewell in Final SNL Sketch
Bowen Yang’s unexpected mid-season departure from Saturday Night Live saw him deliver a moving, song-filled goodbye in his last sketch, leaving fans and castmates emotional.
Bowen Yang’s time on Saturday Night Live came to an emotional close after he revealed he’d be leaving the show halfway through the season. The news broke on 19 December, with Yang’s last appearance set for the following night. Over the past few years, he’s become a standout on the SNL stage, and his exit caught many by surprise. Addressing the announcement online, Yang shared,
“I loved working at SNL, and most of all, I loved the people. I was there at a time when many things in the world started to seem futile, but working at 30 Rock [sic] taught me the value in showing up anyway when people make it worthwhile.”
Final Show Filled with Festive Spirit
The Christmas special, hosted by Yang’s Wicked co-star Ariana Grande, was packed with holiday sketches and a musical spot from Cher. Yang’s last sketch saw him playing an airport worker on his final shift, saying goodbye through a mix of song and heartfelt banter. Grande joined in as his on-screen wife, Rhonda, keen for him to be home for Christmas. The pair traded lines about airport life, with Yang reflecting,
“I’m closing my station; this is my last shift. I will miss everything about this place; the way it smells, the celebrities who come through.”
Grande’s character chimed in,
“I’m so proud of you… All of the eggnog you’ve made over the years!”
She joked about the quality,
“Some of it was great, some of it was rotten,”
to which Yang replied,
“And a lot of it got cut!”
Emotional Goodbyes and a Touch of Humour
When Grande’s character expressed surprise at his decision to retire, Yang responded,
“I just wanted to go out on top,”
prompting Grande to take the mickey,
“Oh, everyone knows you’re a bottom, honey.”
The two shared a hug as Yang, visibly moved, admitted,
“Oh, Rhonda, I should have come home earlier. I just feel so lucky I ever got to work here. And I just wanted to enjoy it for a little bit longer. Especially the people; I’ve loved every single person who worked here, because they’ve done so much for me, especially my boss.”
Cher’s Cameo and a Musical Send-Off
Cher made a surprise appearance as the CEO of the eggnog company, wrapping up the sketch with a cheeky remark when Yang asked for feedback,
“Everyone thought you were a little bit too gay.”
The cast then joined in for a rendition of ‘Bells Will Be Ringing (Please Come Home for Christmas)’, sending Yang off with a mix of laughter and song. The moment was a fitting end for a performer who’s left a big mark on the show and his mates behind the scenes.