Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers Playfully Campaign to Host SNL’s ‘Weekend Update'

Bowen Yang, the Emmy-nominated Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast member, is no stranger to breaking barriers on the long-running NBC sketch show. This week, Yang and his “Las Culturistas” podcast co-host Matt Rogers sparked a wave of excitement in the entertainment and LGBTQ+ communities after jokingly pitching themselves as the future co-hosts of SNL’s signature segment, “Weekend Update” . The suggestion arose during a July 29 appearance on “Hot Ones Versus,” where the two comedians riffed about their dream scenarios for SNL’s next era.

“Bowen Yang jokingly said he would choose to replace Michael Che and Colin Jost on ‘Weekend Update,’” reported AOL, referencing Yang’s comments alongside Rogers. Rogers, in a light-hearted moment, asked Yang, “If you could have me replace any current ‘SNL’ cast, who would it be?” Yang gamely played along, and the two mused about taking over the desk together .

While their remarks were clearly delivered in jest, the idea of Yang and Rogers—both openly gay comedians—helming “Weekend Update” has resonated deeply, particularly for those invested in LGBTQ+ visibility in media. Yang made history in 2019 as SNL’s first Chinese-American and one of its first openly gay cast members. Since then, he has become a cultural force, using his platform to champion inclusivity and nuanced storytelling .

Rogers, an accomplished comedian and writer, has worked closely with Yang for years. Their podcast, “Las Culturistas,” has become a touchstone for queer humor and commentary, blending pop culture critique with candid discussions about identity.

Their playful pitch comes at a time when SNL, now in its 50th season, faces ongoing calls for broader representation. “Weekend Update,” a news parody segment that has featured legendary anchors from Chevy Chase to Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, has rarely included openly LGBTQ+ hosts. The possibility—even if hypothetical—of Yang and Rogers at the helm represents more than just a casting shakeup; it signals an opportunity for one of television’s most-watched satirical spots to place queer voices at the center of American comedic commentary .

The response from fans and advocates has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media erupted with support for “Las Culturistas” on “Weekend Update,” with many highlighting the potential for Yang and Rogers to bring new perspectives, especially regarding issues that affect LGBTQ+ people and other marginalized groups . While SNL’s casting decisions remain closely guarded, the public enthusiasm underscores the appetite for authentic LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream spaces.

Entertainment outlets such as Out magazine have noted that “Yang and Rogers have become cultural icons for young queer audiences, known for their quick wit and social commentary” . Their ascension to “Weekend Update” would mark a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of SNL and television comedy at large.

While neither NBC nor SNL has commented on any official plans for a change at the “Weekend Update” desk, the buzz around Yang and Rogers’ playful campaign invites broader reflection. As SNL continues to shape and satirize the cultural conversation, who sits at its most iconic desk matters—both for comedy and for the communities who see themselves reflected on that stage.

For now, Yang and Rogers appear content to enjoy the speculation and keep fans guessing. But their very public pitch, even as a joke, speaks volumes. It highlights the progress that has been made, and the work that remains for media to fully embrace the diversity of voices that make up its audience.

As the 50th season of SNL unfolds, viewers and advocates alike will be watching to see not just who delivers the punchlines, but whose stories get told at the heart of American satire .