Bowen Yang marked his departure from Saturday Night Live (SNL) during an emotional sketch that aired on December 16, 2023. After more than seven seasons on the iconic show, Yang portrayed “Ed,” a fictional employee at the Delta Sky Club, serving eggnog to holiday travelers on Christmas Eve. The farewell sketch highlighted Yang’s unique blend of humor and heartfelt reflection.
Reflecting on a Memorable Journey
As he donned the costume for his final performance, Yang expressed a mix of nostalgia and humor. “I’m going to miss everything about this place: the way it smells, the celebrities that would come through,” he said in character. He humorously recalled a recent visit from actor Josh O’Connor, demonstrating the celebrity culture that surrounds the show. Yang’s character then received a phone call from Ariana Grande, who appeared as “Ronda.”
In a touching exchange, she commended him, saying, “I’m so proud of you. All the eggnog you’ve made over the years. Some of it was great, some of it was rotten—” to which Yang replied, “And a lot of it got cut,” prompting laughter from the audience. He further likened himself to eggnog, stating, “It’s not for everyone, but people who like it are my kind of people.”
A Fond Goodbye
As the sketch progressed, Yang became emotional, expressing gratitude for his time at SNL. “I just feel so lucky that I ever got to work here,” he said while fighting back tears. He acknowledged the support of his colleagues, especially his boss, emphasizing that his future successes would be rooted in his experiences at SNL.
The sketch concluded with a surprise appearance from music icon Cher, who played the “CEO of Eggnog at Delta.” Cher offered Yang final feedback in her characteristic style, humorously stating, “Everyone thought you were a little bit too gay, but you know what? You’re perfect for me.” This moment encapsulated the warmth and camaraderie that Yang had experienced throughout his tenure.
In his farewell, Yang stated, “This place will always be home, but it’s time to go.” He later reflected on his journey in an Instagram post, sharing, “I was there at a time when many things in the world started to seem futile, but working at 30 Rock taught me the value in showing up anyway when people make it worthwhile.”
Yang’s heartfelt tribute to his colleagues highlighted not just his comedic talent but also the deep connections he formed during his time on the show. His reflections underscored the valuable lessons he learned about himself and others, ultimately expressing a profound appreciation for his experiences at SNL.
As Yang prepares for his next chapter, the impact of his contributions to SNL will be felt long after his departure. His unique voice and perspective have left an indelible mark on the show, and fans will undoubtedly miss his lively presence on the iconic stage.
