Bowen Yang has confirmed he is leaving Saturday Night Live after seven seasons, as the show prepares for its 51st season premiere this weekend. His departure follows a promise from showrunner Lorne Michaels to make significant changes to the cast.
Yang, who joined SNL in 2018, became a breakout star known for his impressions and original characters. His exit was voluntary, according to reports, after Michaels informed the cast that the season 51 lineup was complete.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Yang said: 'The hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight. But after seven unforgettable seasons, I have decided to leave SNL. I am immensely grateful to Lorne for the opportunity, to my castmates, the writers, and the crew for their brilliance, support, and friendship.'
Yang's departure is part of a wider cast shake-up that includes the exit of Ego Nwodim and the addition of five new cast members: Ashley Padilla, Emil Wakim, Jane Wickline, and others. Michaels had previously said he wanted to 'shake things up' after the show's 50th season finale passed without major departures.
The new season premieres this weekend, with James Austin Johnson confirmed to return as Donald Trump. Yang's final episode aired last season, and he has not yet commented further on his exit.
