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Bowen Yang's Tearful Farewell on SNL: Ariana Grande, Cher, and Aidy Bryant Celebrate Milestone Exit
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
Bowen Yang delivered his final performance on Saturday Night Live during the Christmas episode aired on December 20, 2025, midway through the show's 51st season. In the poignant sketch set in a Delta One lounge eggnog station, Yang portrayed an employee on his last shift, reminiscing about the perks and people he would miss. "This is my last shift," he declared, his voice cracking as he referenced celebrities like Josh O'Connor passing through the lounge just last week.
Host Ariana Grande joined as Yang's on-screen wife, leading into a heartfelt rendition of "Please Come Home for Christmas." As emotions peaked, Yang teared up, saying, "I just wanted to enjoy it for a little bit longer. Especially the people. I've loved every single person who works here because they've done so much for me." Musical guest Cher appeared as his "boss," amplifying the star-studded farewell with her signature presence. The trio's performance culminated in lyrics promising "no more sorrow, no grief and pain," underscoring themes of closure and joy.
Yang joined SNL as a writer in 2018 before becoming a featured player and later a repertory cast member, serving seven seasons in total. He made history as the first person of Chinese American descent on the cast, bringing fresh perspectives through characters that often celebrated queer joy and Asian American experiences. His work earned five Emmy nominations, including the sole cast member nod this year, highlighting his impact amid the ensemble.
News of his departure broke earlier that week, confirmed by Yang in an Instagram post . "Thank you to Lorne for the job. For the standard. And for bringing everyone at work together. They all care deeply about people in the room, any room, enjoying themselves. I can’t believe I was ever included in that," he wrote, expressing gratitude to producer Lorne Michaels and the team.
The festivities extended to Weekend Update, where former castmate Aidy Bryant made an unannounced appearance, delighting fans with their comedic chemistry. The segment touched on holiday trends, including family dynamics, with Bryant's energetic delivery complementing Yang's reflective tone. "It's so full circle," observers noted of the reunion, as Bryant, who left SNL in 2022, returned to honor her colleague.
As an openly gay Asian American performer, Yang's tenure resonated deeply within LGBTQ+ communities, challenging stereotypes through multifaceted portrayals. His characters, from flamboyant influencers to nuanced everyday figures, affirmed diverse queer identities and fostered representation on late-night television. GLAAD has long praised SNL for evolving inclusivity, with Yang's contributions exemplifying progress in featuring transgender people, non-binary performers, and intersectional stories alongside allies like Grande and Cher, both vocal LGBTQ+ supporters.
Yang addressed perceptions in the sketch lightheartedly: "Everyone thought you were a little bit too gay," prompting an affirming response of "You're perfect for me." This moment encapsulated his authentic voice, which has inspired queer youth globally. Post-episode, social media buzzed with tributes, emphasizing SNL's role as a "home" for LGBTQ+ talent. Yang concluded, "This place will always be home," as cheers erupted, symbolizing enduring bonds.
The episode streamed on Peacock, drawing widespread acclaim for blending humor, music, and vulnerability. Yang's exit, while bittersweet, paves the way for new voices while cementing his legacy in comedy and queer media. Colleagues rallied with "We love you," a sentiment echoed by fans celebrating his trailblazing path.
