Bowen Yang has candidly shared his thoughts on the experience of working at Saturday Night Live, describing it as “the cringiest thing in show business.” During a recent episode of the Las Culturistas podcast, Yang and his co-host Matt Rogers discussed the challenges of navigating feelings of awkwardness and embarrassment in pursuit of success.
Rogers articulated the struggle many face, saying, “You have to sometimes climb up a huge hill of cringe.” He explained that overcoming this discomfort can lead to a sense of happiness and fulfillment. Yang, who joined SNL in 2018, resonated with this sentiment, stating, “Bitch, I know about working through cringe, climbing a cringe mountain. I work at Saturday f—ing Night Live, the cringiest thing in show business on every level.”
Despite the challenges, Yang expressed gratitude for his role at SNL, acknowledging its significance in his life and career. However, he also noted the psychological toll of constantly hearing criticism about the show. “To live through working at SNL and to have people constantly tell you how much it sucks, how bad it is, how it’s not as good as it used to be… that has to do something to you psychologically where you emerge and go, ‘I don’t give a f—,’” he said.
Rogers chimed in, emphasizing that while opinions about SNL are abundant, the show’s popularity and cultural impact cannot be denied. “It’s the most popular show in the world, it’s now been on for 50 years,” he remarked. “It is Capital C commercial culture, and therefore it’s cringe because everyone is like, ‘I’m having something to say.’”
Yang agreed, acknowledging the subjective nature of comedy and the fact that SNL often invites strong opinions. However, Rogers pointed out the positive aspect of their work: the ability to make people laugh and feel good. “That is why we’re doing this, and that is why America is worth saving,” he concluded.
Yang’s experience at SNL has also provided him with opportunities to address his critics directly. In a memorable appearance on Weekend Update in 2022, he portrayed a spotted lanternfly, defiantly telling the audience, “Y’all don’t even know me. Boo me, haters! Y’all haters can kiss my ass!”
The conversation between Yang and Rogers highlights the complex relationship performers have with their work, especially in a high-profile environment like SNL. While the show has faced criticism over the years, it remains a significant platform for comedians and a staple of American television.
As Yang continues to navigate the ups and downs of working at SNL, his candid reflections serve as a reminder of the resilience required in the entertainment industry. The journey through “cringe mountain” may be challenging, but it also offers moments of joy and connection with audiences.
Source: Las Culturistas Podcast
