The Heartfelt Goodbye of Bowen Yang in “Delta Lounge” Sketch on SNL
It feels like Saturday Night Live‘s December 20 “Delta Lounge” sketch was about more than just free eggnog; it marked an emotional farewell to one of the show’s beloved cast members, Bowen Yang. The sketch showcased Yang in a moment that resonated deeply with viewers, blending humor and sentimentality in a way that SNL has mastered over its long history.
A Nostalgic Farewell from Bowen Yang
In the poignant sketch, Yang played Ed, an employee at the imaginary Delta One Lounge, who was bidding farewell to a job he adored. This final sketch of 2025 opened as Yang’s character shared his bittersweet sentiments, declaring, “This machine’s kinda breaking down, so they’re closing my station. This is my last shift.” The audience responded with a collective “awww,” setting the stage for the heartfelt journey that would unfold.
Yang captured the essence of nostalgia, reflecting on the memories accumulated during his time at the lounge—a mix of the sights, sounds, and even the aromas. He recounted how he had recently shared space with famed actors like Josh O’Connor, bringing palpable warmth to the performance.
The Role of Friendship and Support
Throughout the sketch, Yang’s character interacts with customers, including a poignant phone call from his wife, Rhonda, portrayed by none other than Ariana Grande. Their exchange, filled with playful banter about eggnog—“Some of it was great. Some of it was rotten”—underscored the balance of humor with the weight of goodbyes. Yang’s character noted, “Eggnog’s a lot like me: Not for everyone, but the people who like it are my kind of people.” This humorous analogy encapsulated Yang’s unique charm and relatability, endearing him to the audience even further.
As the skit progressed, Yang’s character expressed pure love and gratitude for his time spent at the Delta One Lounge, stating, “I just feel so lucky that I ever got to work here.” His emotional delivery brought tears to his eyes, a sentiment shared by Grande, who managed to maintain her composure while visibly impacted by Yang’s vulnerability.
Cher’s Magical Cameo
The sketch took a delightful turn when Yang’s boss entered the scene, played by music legend Cher. This unexpected cameo added an element of surprise and joy to the sketch, enchanting both the live audience and viewers at home. Cher has long been a dream guest for Yang, having previously expressed his admiration for her. Their collaborative duet of “Please Come Home for Christmas” turned the farewell into a celebration, bringing the sketch full circle with emotional resonance.
Bowen Yang’s Impact on SNL
Bowen Yang’s presence on SNL has been significant since he joined as a writer in 2018 before being promoted to the cast in Season 45. His unique perspective as the first Chinese-American cast member has been pivotal, not only in addressing representation but also in enriching the show’s comedic tapestry. Yang expressed deep gratitude in a heartfelt Instagram post on December 20, reflecting on his journey: “I loved working at SNL, and most of all I loved the people.”
He acknowledged the challenges and growth he experienced during his tenure, highlighting how comedy is often a delicate balance of logistics, trial, and error. Yang’s openness about his imperfections and learning experiences resonated with many fans, showcasing how his journey at SNL wasn’t just about laughs but also personal growth.
Community and Connection
Yang’s farewell also highlighted the sense of community fostered at SNL. His reflections on the people behind the scenes emphasized a shared commitment to making audiences laugh and enjoy themselves—a sentiment he attributed to the show’s environment. “I can’t believe I was ever included in that,” he wrote, reminding viewers of the human element behind the comedy.
His recognition of fellow writers and colleagues—thanking those who made an impact on him—illustrated the collaborative nature of sketch comedy and the support systems that often go unnoticed. It’s this underlying camaraderie that makes SNL not just a show, but a family.
The Legacy of Bowen Yang
As fans continue to celebrate Yang’s contributions, his farewell in the “Delta Lounge” sketch serves as a reminder of the bittersweet nature of goodbyes. The blend of humor and pathos he captured resonates well beyond the stage, reflecting the impactful moments that define a career in entertainment. Yang leaves behind a legacy of breaking barriers, creating laughter, and inspiring others with his unique brand of comedy.
For those who missed it, Saturday Night Live‘s Christmas episode featuring this sketch can still be watched on NBC or streamed on Peacock the following day, ensuring that Yang’s heartfelt goodbye can be cherished by all.