The Real Reason Bowen Yang Walked Away from SNL

Even though SNL creator Lorne Michaels really didn’t want Bowen Yang to go, Bowen decided it was time to step away from the show... and it wasn’t just about money.

According to Page Six, Lorne reportedly offered him a big deal to stick around, and Bowen had even agreed to stay through December, but sources say he was clearly unhappy and ready to move on.

They note that part of what pushed him toward that choice was being completely maxed out... juggling SNL with major outside commitments like co-starring in the Wicked films, the Las Culturistas podcast, and other writing and acting projects made the schedule feel overwhelming.

Page Six notes that insiders also said Bowen was affected emotionally by the cast turnover this season, including the decision to cut longtime cast member Heidi Gardner, which reportedly hit him hard.

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