'SNL' castmember Bowen Yang shares a piece of 'cultural contraband' from his youth - NPR
The Rise of Bowen Yang: From High School Prophet to SNL Star
Bowen Yang's journey to becoming a cast member on Saturday Night Live (SNL) is a tale of prophecy, perseverance, and passion. In this article, we'll delve into Yang's remarkable story, from his high school days to his current success as a writer and cast member on SNL.
A Prophetic High School Moment
During his senior year of high school, Bowen Yang was voted "Most Likely to Succeed in Hollywood" by his peers. Little did they know that this prediction would come true sooner rather than later. Yang's confidence and passion for comedy were evident even back then, setting the stage for his future success.
The Early Days
After graduating from high school, Yang moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy. He began performing stand-up comedy and writing for various sketch comedy shows. In 2018, he joined SNL as a writer, marking an exciting milestone in his journey.
A Call to Action: Becoming a Cast Member
Yang's success as a writer caught the attention of SNL producers, who saw potential in him to take on new roles within the show. In 2019, Yang was promoted to become a cast member, fulfilling a prophecy that had been made about him by his high school peers.
The Rise to Fame
As a cast member, Yang has quickly established himself as a talented and versatile performer. He has appeared in numerous sketches, parodies, and musical numbers, showcasing his impressive range and comedic timing.
One of Yang's most notable achievements is his portrayal of Ken Jeong, the actor known for his roles in The Hangover and Community. His hilarious impressions and spot-on performances have earned him widespread critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
A Unique Voice
Yang's unique voice and perspective bring a fresh energy to SNL. As an Asian-American comedian, he has used his platform to tackle topics that are often overlooked in mainstream comedy, such as cultural identity, social justice, and mental health.
His willingness to take risks and push boundaries has made him a standout performer on the show. Yang's commitment to using his voice for good has also inspired a new generation of comedians and fans alike.
Awards and Accolades
Yang's success on SNL has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and nominations, including multiple Writers Guild Awards and a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series.
A Growing Legacy
As Yang continues to grow as a performer and writer, his legacy is already cemented in the world of comedy. His dedication to using his platform for good and his passion for making people laugh have made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, Bowen Yang's journey from high school prophecy to SNL cast member is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and passion for comedy. As he continues to break barriers and push boundaries on the show, Yang's unique voice and perspective will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
A Look Back at Yang's Journey
- 2018: Joined SNL as a writer
- 2019: Promoted to become a cast member
- 2020: Became known for his portrayal of Ken Jeong
- 2022: Received multiple Writers Guild Awards and a Primetime Emmy Award nomination
- Present day: Continues to make waves on SNL as a talented performer and writer
A Look to the Future
As Yang continues to grow and evolve as a performer, we can expect even more exciting things from him. With his commitment to using his platform for good and his passion for making people laugh, Yang is sure to remain a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
In the words of Yang himself, "I'm just trying to make people laugh and have a good time. If I can do that while also being true to myself and my community, then I feel like I'm doing something right."