SNL's Bowen Yang on Handling Sketch Cuts: Maintaining Resilience Amid Lorne Michaels' Decisions
Discover how 'SNL' standout Bowen Yang stays unfazed by producer Lorne Michaels cutting his sketches, as he shares, 'I don't take it personally' and 'I remain unaffected'
Bowen Yang is Calloused Against Lorne Michaels Cutting Sketches
Gary Gershoff/Getty Images; Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
Comedians must have a tough mentality, and Bowen Yang is no different. He is an actor, writer, and comedian who joined Saturday Night Live in 2018 and became part of the on-air cast in 2019. During his time on the show, he has learned not to take it personally when Lorne Michaels, the creator and producer of SNL, decides to cut one of his sketches.
During an interview on Thursday, March 7, on Today With Hoda & Jenna, Yang shared how he feels when something gets cut. "At this point, I’m fully calloused all around my body and I don’t feel anything, so it’s fine, he can do whatever he wants," Yang said.
It's surprising to hear that someone as talkative and expressive as Yang, who is 33 years old, admitted to not feeling anything. However, his honesty was evident during the interview, where he openly talked about topics ranging from stolen "genetic material" to dealing with IBS.
Shifting gears, Yang also touched upon his friendship with Ariana Grande and gave a glimpse of what viewers can expect when she performs as the musical guest on the upcoming episode of SNL.
Bowen Yang is Calloused Against Lorne Michaels Cutting Sketches
Bowen Yang, Lorne Michaels, and Kate McKinnon FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images
Yang hinted that if Michaels doesn't cut the sketch, he and Grande might be seen on screen together. Even if the sketch is cut, the two still have their wine nights. This bond between them grew as they worked on the film adaptation of Wicked.
Yang shared that Grande has a special quality about her. He believes that the positive perception people have of him is actually because of Grande. She has a way of attracting people to her.
Yang brought Pink Moon rosé to Grande's house, and now it's her new favorite.
"She's so funny," Yang shared about Grande. "She's a great friend. She's truly amazing."
This weekend, Grande will be performing on stage with host Josh Brolin. Last week, actress Sydney Sweeney had the hosting duties. Kotb, 59, and Bush Hager, 42, spoke to Yang about his experience working with Sweeney in a steamy sketch.
Yang admitted that he was nervous about Sweeney's reaction to the sketch, but the actress had a humorous response to his concern.
He shared, "She finally reached out and said, ‘Bowen, I’m on Euphoria.’ She’s really good at what she does.”
The interview also delved into Yang’s work beyond his time on Saturday Night Live. He also talked about his Audible Original Series, Hot White Heist, which is coming back for its second season premiere on Thursday. The series features a star-studded cast including Alan Cumming, Jane Krakowski, Jane Lynch, Ian McKellen, Cynthia Nixon, and more.
Editor's P/S:
Bowen Yang's resilience shines through in his nonchalant attitude towards Lorne Michaels's sketch cuts. His ability to compartmentalize his emotions showcases the tough mentality necessary to navigate the demanding world of comedy. Despite his stoic demeanor, Yang's honesty and vulnerability are evident in his openness about personal struggles, highlighting the multifaceted nature of his character.
Beyond his work on Saturday Night Live, Yang's friendship with Ariana Grande and his Audible Original Series, Hot White Heist, further demonstrate his diverse talents. His admiration for Grande's positive influence and his excitement for the upcoming episode of SNL hint at the collaborative and supportive environment he fosters. The upcoming season of Hot White Heist, with its star-studded cast, promises to deliver another captivating audio experience.
