Bowen Yang recently shared some behind-the-scenes stories from his time on Saturday Night Live without revealing the identities of those involved. During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live, Yang recounted a particularly unpleasant experience where a celebrity host made multiple cast members cry before a table read due to dislike of their ideas. This behavior left a negative impact on the cast and highlighted the challenges that can arise in a high-pressure environment like SNL.
One of the fan questions posed to Yang was about handling a sketch that didn’t land well with the audience. He shared an instance where a live sketch was unexpectedly turned into a pre-tape without his knowledge, leading to a less-than-ideal outcome. Despite the setback, Yang acknowledged the subjective nature of comedy and emphasized the importance of moving on from disappointments in a fast-paced industry like television.
Bowen Yang’s journey on Saturday Night Live began in 2018 when he joined the writing staff before being promoted to an on-air talent in Season 45. His performances on the show have garnered critical acclaim, earning him multiple Emmy nominations, including a recent nod for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Yang’s success serves as a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft in a competitive entertainment landscape.
As SNL gears up for its landmark 50th season, viewers can look forward to familiar faces like Maya Rudolph returning to portray Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 presidential election. Additionally, the film “Saturday Night,” directed by Jason Reitman, is set to premiere in theaters on October 11. The movie will revisit the chaotic first-ever SNL broadcast in 1975, with Gabriel LaBelle portraying a young Lorne Michaels and a star-studded cast embodying the show’s iconic comedic figures.
Bowen Yang’s candid revelations shed light on the highs and lows of working behind the scenes at Saturday Night Live. From navigating challenging situations with grace to finding resilience in the face of failure, Yang’s experiences offer a glimpse into the reality of creating comedy in a fast-paced, ever-changing industry. As SNL continues to captivate audiences with its unique brand of humor, the stories shared by its cast and crew serve as a reminder of the dedication and hard work that goes into making audiences laugh every week.