Bowen Yang | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 16, 2025

Who is Bowen Yang?

Bowen Yang, born in Brisbane, Australia, in 1990, has emerged as a trailblazing force in the entertainment industry. Growing up in both Canada and Colorado, he made history as the first Chinese-American cast member of “Saturday Night Live” and the first gay man to be part of the show for more than one season. Known for his insightful and humorous performances, Yang has effectively integrated queerness into comedic characters while steering clear of harmful stereotypes. His unique perspective has significantly enriched the comedic landscape of SNL, showcasing the importance of representation in mainstream media.

In addition to his acclaimed work on SNL, Yang has made notable appearances in various television shows like “Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens” and guest roles on series such as “Broad City” and “High Maintenance.” His comedic journey also includes co-hosting the popular podcast “Las Culturistas,” where he dives into pop culture with his friend Matt Rogers. Yang has not only redefined what it means to be a queer Asian-American performer in Hollywood but has also become a symbol of resilience and authenticity, engaging audiences with his relatable humor and candid storytelling.

Early Life and Education

Bowen Yang was born in 1990 in Brisbane, Australia, to a family that relocated from China. His father pursued a doctorate in mining engineering, and Yang's upbringing was influenced by his cultural roots, as he grew up speaking Mandarin and attending Chinese Sunday school with his older sister. The family's move from Australia to Canada and then to Colorado shaped Yang's early life. It was in suburban Denver that he became an ardent fan of Saturday Night Live, inspiring his comedic ambitions and leading him to later be voted "Most Likely to Be a Cast Member on Saturday Night Live" during his senior year of high school.

Yang attended Smoky Hill High School, where he participated in an improv troupe known as Spontaneous Combustion. After graduating high school, he enrolled at New York University as a pre-med chemistry major, motivated partly by his passion for Grey's Anatomy. However, his love for comedy prevailed, prompting him to forego medical school after graduation. Instead, he engaged in graphic design while simultaneously pursuing opportunities to perform and audition for comedy shows, laying the groundwork for his future success in the entertainment industry as a key figure on Saturday Night Live.

Beginning of Comedy Career at NYU

Bowen Yang's comedic journey began in earnest during his time at New York University, where he initially enrolled as a pre-med chemistry major. Inspired by popular culture and shows like "Grey's Anatomy", Yang had aspirations of a medical career; however, his passion for comedy remained strong. While studying, he participated in various comedic performances and workshops, honing his craft and performing regularly. His involvement with student-led improv groups allowed him to explore humor and its potential roles in storytelling and character development.

Instead of pursuing a career in medicine post-graduation, Yang made a pivotal decision to focus on his comedic talents. He transitioned into graphic design as a way to support himself while actively auditioning for comedy gigs. This choice ultimately paved the way for his entry into the world of mainstream comedy. Yang's dedication to his comedic aspirations soon led him to opportunities that culminated in his writing position on "Saturday Night Live", an achievement that would further cement his status in the industry. This foundational period at NYU not only sharpened his comedic skills but also instilled in him the resilience required to navigate the entertainment landscape.

Career Success on Saturday Night Live

Bowen Yang made history in 2019 when he became the first Chinese-American cast member of Saturday Night Live (SNL), as well as the first gay male performer to remain on the show for more than one season. His journey with SNL began as a writer during its 44th season, where he quickly transitioned in front of the camera. Yang’s portrayal of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in a sketch showcased his comedic range and established him as a key figure in the show's landscape. His innovative approach often seamlessly integrated queerness into sketches without resorting to stereotypes, allowing for more authentic representation.

Yang's talent did not go unnoticed; he received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series in 2019, reflecting the impact of his work. As a featured player for the following season, he brought characters like Trade Daddy and politician Andrew Yang to life, each infused with wit and cultural relevance. His contributions to memorable sketches, including the poignant “Pride Month Song,” resonated deeply with audiences, particularly during moments of cultural reckoning. In July 2021, Yang made further history as the first featured cast member to be nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, affirming his position as a trailblazer in the comedy world.

Television and Podcast Work

Bowen Yang has made a significant impact in the world of television and podcasts, showcasing his diverse talents and unique voice. He is best known for his role on Saturday Night Live, where he made history as the first Chinese-American cast member and the first openly gay man to be part of the show for more than one season. His performances often bring a fresh perspective, with characters that incorporate queer identities without relying on stereotypes. Yang's standout moments include his portrayal of various cultural and political figures, adding depth to the show while pushing for more inclusive representation in comedy.

In addition to SNL, Yang is well-recognized for his role as a cousin to Awkwafina's character in the series Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens. He has also made guest appearances on acclaimed shows like High Maintenance, Broad City, and Girls5eva, demonstrating his versatility as a comedic actor. Beyond television, Yang co-hosts the popular podcast Las Culturistas, where he and fellow comedian Matt Rogers explore contemporary pop culture and its intersections with identity. Furthermore, Yang lent his voice to the scripted podcast Hot White Heist, showcasing his ability to engage with narratives that resonate with the LGBTQ+ community.

Personal Life: Gay and Family Relationships

Bowen Yang navigated a complex relationship with his family regarding his sexuality. When he came out to his parents at 17, their reaction was one of confusion and distress, leading them to arrange conversion therapy sessions. Yang described this experience as surreal, highlighting the dangers of trying to “explain the gay away” through pseudoscientific methods. Despite the initial challenges, Yang persevered and later reconnected with his family during his college years at New York University. His journey to authenticity paved the way for a stronger bond with his parents, who have since grown to be supportive of his career and identity.

Today, Yang enjoys a close relationship with his family, with his parents taking pride in his achievements as the first Chinese-American cast member on "Saturday Night Live." He reflects on this progress with a sense of gratitude, acknowledging that his success has taken considerable effort and meaning to both him and his family. Yang's mother has expressed her pride, stating how fortunate he is to be doing what he loves. Their evolving dynamic illustrates the journey of acceptance, showing that love and understanding can bridge generational and cultural gaps.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Success

Bowen Yang has established himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, specifically through his role on Saturday Night Live (SNL). While exact figures regarding his net worth remain undisclosed, it is estimated to be in the range of $1 million to $5 million. This wealth primarily stems from his salary as a cast member, which reportedly averages around $7,000 to $15,000 per episode. With SNL episodes airing weekly during the season, Yang's earnings are significantly bolstered by the show's popularity and his contributions to various sketches and writing.

In addition to SNL, Yang's earnings are enhanced by his appearances on television series such as Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens and guest roles in shows like High Maintenance and Broad City. Moreover, his creative ventures, including the successful podcast Las Culturistas, contribute to his financial success. As Yang continues to break barriers for Asian-American and LGBTQ+ representation in comedy, his career trajectory suggests that his net worth will only grow as he takes on more prominent roles and projects in the future.