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In a series of notable departures before Saturday Night Live 51 seasons, Bowenyan is still not ready to say goodbye.
While catching up with the people of One House and toasting to the 34-year-old comedian toasts at the celebration of the Emmys, who was celebrated as the most nominated Asian male performer at the annual ceremony, he explains why he doesn’t have a specific timeline when it comes to moving from SNL.
“I’ve always gone through my instincts, can I do more? And do I feel like I’ll do it?” Yang explains his decision to stay in season 51. And he said, “There’s nothing you need to do.”
Variety via Michael Buckner/Getty
“I have to respect that,” he continues. “That guy changed my life and I owe a lot of my life to that show. And I love working there, people are the best. I really love each of them.”
Yang also points out that after always going “with a game plan” for years, he doesn’t expect to make it into a new season.
“I let it go and I think it helped me a lot,” he recalls. “I like no roadmap. If there’s a place to do it, it’s SNL and every week. Sometimes you take on the challenge.
He goes on to admit that he is still nervous “every week” but says that it seems like a universal sense.
“I remember Kate McKinnon remembering her eighth season. When I started, I saw her in the elevator,” recalls Yang. “I was like, “How are you?” she said, “I’m nervous.” “Already?” And she said, “It’s not going away yet.”
NBC via Mary Ellen Matthews/Getty
Over the past few weeks, beloved cast members Devon Walker, Emile Wakim, Michael Longfellow, Heidi Gardner and Egonu Wodim have all announced exits from the long-term series. Yang, who is in his sixth season, says it’s “absolutely” emotional to know that many of his co-stars and friends have left.
“What I’ve always thought is, I think everyone knows is that SNL is this bootcamp and that means there’s a next step where you train for something else,” he adds. “I think it’s always a place in transition and always a launch pad.”
“For people like Kenan (Thompson) who stayed on the show, he still helped him use the show to expand his potential,” Yang points out. “I think that applies to everyone who hasn’t returned. I’m very excited to see what they’re doing. I’m excited about the new cast.”
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Saturday Night Live Season 51 will premiere on Saturday, October 4th at 11:30pm on NBC and Peacock.
