Image Credit: Will Heath/NBC Bowen Yang, one of Saturday Night Live's main cast members and comedy fan favorite, is reportedly leaving the sketch comedy series after seven years with the show. He started out as a writer before being promoted to a repertory player. According to Deadline, Bowen, 35, will take his final bow during the December 20, 2025, episode, while his Wicked co-star Ariana Grande hosts. So, why is Bowen leaving SNL now? Here is what we know so far about his midseason departure.