The iconic sketch show Saturday Night Live enjoyed its largest audience in more than a year for a festive and emotionally charged episode that served as cast member Bowen Yang's final appearance. The broadcast on 20 December 2025, hosted by pop superstar Ariana Grande with music legend Cher as the musical guest, attracted an impressive 5.4 million viewers according to NBC data.
A Star-Studded and Emotional Send-Off
The episode's success was anchored by a poignant final sketch featuring Yang, Grande, and Cher. Yang portrayed a Delta One Lounge employee working his last shift on Christmas Eve. In the scene, he expressed his gratitude, telling Grande, "I just feel so lucky that I ever got to work here, and I just wanted to enjoy it for a little bit longer." The emotional climax came when Cher, appearing as the "CEO of Eggnog," delivered feedback to Yang's character: "Well, everyone thought you were a little bit too gay. But you know what? You're perfect for me."
The trio shared a tearful embrace as they sang "Please Come Home for Christmas," with Grande visibly holding back tears while gripping Yang's hand. Yang's closing line, "This place will always be home, but ah, it's time to go," was met with a kiss from the host, providing a heartfelt conclusion to his seven-year tenure on the programme.
Significant Ratings Milestone for SNL
The 5.4 million viewer figure represents a substantial jump from the previous high for the year, which was the season premiere on 4 October featuring host Bad Bunny and musical guest Doja Cat, which drew 4.6 million. This Christmas episode firmly re-established the show's cultural relevance and pulling power, proving that a major cast departure, when handled with such sentiment and star power, can become a major televisual event.
Cher's performance included classic Christmas tracks like "Run Rudolph Run," adding to the special's festive appeal. The integration of both host and musical guest into Yang's farewell narrative was a masterstroke in production, creating a memorable and cohesive hour of television.
Yang's Legacy and Unusual Midseason Exit
Bowen Yang joined SNL as a writer in 2018 before being promoted to the cast the following year. He quickly became a fan favourite, known for his sharp character work in sketches parodying everything from the viral baby hippo Moo Deng to an overzealous spin instructor and pop star Charli XCX. His impact was recognised with a historic Primetime Emmy Award nomination in 2021, making him the first SNL featured player to receive the honour.
Ahead of his final show, Yang reflected on Instagram, stating the show taught him the "value of showing up" and that "comedy is mostly logistics and that it will usually fail until it doesn't." He specifically thanked Grande for "sending me off in the dreamiest way I could imagine."
While leaving midway through a season is uncommon, it is not without precedent for SNL; past cast members like Cecily Strong, Molly Shannon, and Eddie Murphy have also made midseason exits. Yang leaves with a burgeoning career outside the show, including roles in the film Wicked and its sequel, Wicked: For Good, as well as the romantic comedy The Wedding Banquet.
The record-breaking ratings for his farewell episode underscore both Yang's popularity and the enduring appeal of Saturday Night Live when it blends high-profile guests with genuine, moving moments from its beloved cast.
