Bowen Yang shares what Lorne Michaels said to him privately regarding his future at ‘SNL’ following the mass departure of the cast.

Bowen Yang Talks SNL and Season 51 Changes

Bowen Yang shared that Lorne Michaels, the creator of “Saturday Night Live,” hasn’t officially signed him on for the upcoming Season 51 yet.

“I’ve always trusted my instincts, wondering if there’s something I should do—what I feel I should do,” Yang mentioned recently, adding that he spoke with folks during an Emmy celebration. “Lorne and I had a chat, and he mentioned that I still have more to contribute. I told him I worried the audience might be getting tired of me, but he assured me that wasn’t the case.”

Yang, who is 34, values Michaels’ feedback. “I have to respect that,” he said, noting that working with NBC has significantly impacted his life. “This show means a lot to me, and I genuinely appreciate everyone I work with.”

As he gears up for his sixth season, Yang noted he’s not following a specific plan this time. “I’ve let go of that mindset, and honestly, it has really helped me,” he shared. “I enjoy the unpredictability of ‘SNL.’ Every week presents a new challenge, and that’s exciting.”

In the midst of noted transitions on the show, he expressed some emotional farewells to longtime castmates but understood each of their reasons for leaving.

“What’s often said—and I believe—is that ‘SNL’ is like a bootcamp, preparing you for the next step in your career,” Yang added. He sees it as a place of growth. “Take Kenan [Thompson], for instance; he’s still utilizing the show to expand his opportunities.”

Yang also expressed enthusiasm for the new cast members joining, stating, “I’m really looking forward to seeing what they bring to the table.” The show has undergone a substantial shakeup recently, with several cast members departing as part of Michaels’ push to refresh the program amid some growing pressures.

Recently, Ego Nwodim, a fan favorite, announced her exit after seven seasons, taking her place alongside former cast members Heidi Gardner, Michael Longfellow, Emil Wakim, and Devon Walker, who all left recently.