Bowen Yang, the charismatic 33-year-old star of Saturday Night Live (SNL), recently graced the pages of InStyle with a photoshoot that was as dynamic as his career. Mid-shoot, Yang faced a challenge: a trampoline set up to capture him seemingly floating among the clouds. Known for his fearless commitment to character, from the infamous Titanic Iceberg to the SoulCycle instructor Flint, Yang did not hesitate. His readiness to embrace the absurd for the sake of entertainment is a testament to his dedication to his craft.
Dressed in a variety of high-fashion outfits, Yang showcased his versatility and humor. In addition to his SNL fame, he’s a co-host of the popular podcast Las Culturistas, known for its quirky segments and engaging hosts. Yang’s talent also shines through in his film roles, including his portrayal of Howie in “Fire Island,” a modern queer twist on “Pride and Prejudice.” His cameo in the rom-com “Bros” and his role in the musical “Dicks: The Musical” further demonstrate his range. With a mix of self-deprecation and pride, Yang jokes about his “scam” through Hollywood, especially with his upcoming part in the “Wicked” adaptation.
Yang’s rise in the entertainment world is impressive, particularly amidst the challenges of a pandemic, political turmoil, and industry strikes. He reveals that his approach to managing the chaos of life is to embrace it rather than trying to control it too tightly. This relaxed attitude extends to his work on SNL, where he has learned to be more open and less rigid in his expectations, allowing room for spontaneity and joy.
Yang appreciates the unique nature of SNL, where ideas conceived on a Tuesday can become television by Saturday. He admires hosts like Bad Bunny who embrace the show’s unpredictability. According to Yang, the pressure of creating new sketches each week is part of the show’s magic, requiring openness and quick thinking, much like Taylor Swift’s approach to songwriting.
As the political climate in America continues to evolve, Yang and the SNL team avoid making assumptions about what’s to come, focusing instead on adapting to the ever-changing environment. He reflects on the difference between current politics and the days when figures like Obama, Clinton, and McCain appeared on the show, noting the need to adapt to the current climate.
Despite the pressures of the show, Yang emphasizes the importance of keeping the fun alive, balancing stress with the joy of creation. On his days off, he indulges in relaxation, embracing what he humorously refers to as “bed rot.”
Looking back, Yang credits his role in “Nora From Queens” with opening doors in his career, sharing a humorous anecdote about learning the ropes of acting from his co-stars. His future plans remain open to the possibilities of “surprise and delight,” with a focus on enjoying his SNL tenure for as long as it feels right.
Yang’s interview concludes with a playful Q&A session, revealing his unique humor and perspectives. From his celebrity crush being Crush the turtle from “Finding Nemo,” to his peculiar way of enjoying a bagel, Yang’s responses are as entertaining and unexpected as his on-screen performances.
