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In the latest episode of Saturday Night Live (SNL), Bowen Yang took center stage as he hilariously portrayed George Santos, a Republican congressman who was expelled from the House of Representatives in a dramatic 311-114 majority vote on December 1, 2023. This satirical take on the disgraced politician has been a recurring feature on SNL, and Bowen Yang’s comedic genius shines through every time he steps into this role.
The Genesis of George Santos on SNL
1. SNL’s Comedic Take
Since Season 48, SNL has been featuring Bowen Yang’s impression of George Santos, turning the politician’s real-life controversies into comedic gold. The show’s writers have taken Santos’s fall from grace and exaggerated it to create a side-splitting character that keeps audiences entertained.
2. Bowen Yang’s Cold Open
In the cold open of Emma Stone’s December 2 episode, Bowen Yang’s portrayal of George Santos involved a press conference where Santos addressed reporters. He claimed to be a victim of bullying and insisted on his innocence, despite facing numerous federal charges, including identity theft and fraud. Yang’s Santos remained unapologetic, stating, “If I’m guilty of anything, it’s for loving too much slash-fraud.”
A Memorable Farewell Tribute
The sketch reached its climax when Bowen Yang, in character as George Santos, delivered a memorable moment by singing a reworked version of Elton John’s “Candle in the Wind” as a farewell tribute. The lyrics humorously referenced Santos’s scandalous actions and eccentricities, adding a comedic touch to the real-life political drama.
Bowen Yang: The Multitalented Entertainer
1. Meet Bowen Yang
Bowen Yang, born on November 6, 1990, in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, is a multi-talented entertainer. He is an actor, comedian, writer, and podcaster currently based in New York City. Yang earned his Bachelor’s degree from New York University, and his journey into the entertainment world has been nothing short of remarkable.
2. Breaking Barriers
Yang joined the writing staff of SNL in September 2018, ahead of its 44th season. A year later, in September 2019, he was promoted to on-air cast status as a featured player, making history as the first Chinese-American, first Australian-American, third openly gay male, and the fourth-ever cast member of Asian descent to join the SNL family. Notably, Bowen Yang became the first SNL featured player to receive a Primetime Emmy Award nomination in 2021.
3. Beyond SNL
Aside from his work on SNL, Yang co-hosts a comedy pop-culture podcast called “Las Culturistas” with Matt Rogers. He has also appeared in various television series, including Girls5Eva, Ziwe, The Other Two, and Awkwafina is Nora from Queens. Additionally, he’s known for his roles in LGBTQ romantic comedies Fire Island and Bros, both released in 2022. Bowen Yang’s diverse talents and achievements have made him a notable figure in the entertainment industry.
Bowen Yang’s Diverse Career
1. A Versatile Start
Before entering the entertainment scene, Bowen Yang taught himself Adobe Photoshop and worked as a graphic designer at One Kings Lane, a luxury interior and home design website, from 2013 to 2018.
2. The Comedy Journey
Yang’s journey into comedy included performing improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade and designing graphics for his own and friends’ comedy shows. He co-hosts the podcast “Las Culturistas” with Matt Rogers, gaining popularity for its unique and humorous content.
3. SNL Stardom
His breakout moment came in 2018 when he joined Saturday Night Live (SNL) as a staff writer for the 44th season. He quickly made an impact with his creative contributions, earning writing credits on various sketches, including the critically acclaimed “The Actress.” In September 2019, Bowen Yang was promoted to a featured player on SNL, making history as the show’s first Chinese-American cast member and the third openly gay male.
4. Advocacy and Impact
Yang’s versatility extends beyond SNL; he has appeared in TV series like “Girls5Eva,” “Ziwe,” “The Other Two,” and “Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens.” Notably, he has received praise for his outspokenness on issues, such as addressing violence against Asian Americans during a Weekend Update segment in 2021.
5. Expanding Horizons
In addition to his SNL success, Yang has ventured into writing for the Apple TV+ series “Schmigadoon!” and has taken on roles in films like “Isn’t It Romantic,” “Bros,” and the upcoming “Wicked” adaptation. His dynamic career showcases his talent and significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
Saturday Night Live Cast
Repertory Players:
Player |
Joined |
|---|---|
| Michael Che | 2014 |
| Mikey Day | 2016 |
| Andrew Dismukes | 2020 |
| Chloe Fineman | 2019 |
| Heidi Gardner | 2017 |
| James Austin Johnson | 2021 |
| Punkie Johnson | 2020 |
| Colin Jost | 2014 |
| Ego Nwodim | 2018 |
| Sarah Sherman | 2021 |
| Kenan Thompson | 2003 |
| Bowen Yang | 2019 |
Featured Players:
Player |
Joined |
|---|---|
| Marcello Hernandez | 2022 |
| Molly Kearney | 2022 |
| Michael Longfellow | 2022 |
| Chloe Troast | 2023 |
| Devon Walker | 2022 |
Saturday Night Live: A Cultural Icon
Saturday Night Live (SNL) has been a cultural phenomenon for decades. Established by Lorne Michaels and developed by Dick Ebersol, the show premiered on NBC on October 11, 1975, originally titled NBC’s Saturday Night. Since then, it has become one of the longest-running network television programs in the United States, with 49 seasons and 954 episodes as of October 2023.
SNL’s unique format includes comedy sketches that often parody current American culture and politics. The diverse cast performs these sketches, alongside celebrity hosts who participate in the hilarity. The show’s iconic catchphrase, “Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!” sets the tone for each episode.
Over the years, SNL has launched the careers of numerous comedians and actors, and its influence has extended globally, with adaptations in different countries. Successful sketches have even been adapted into feature films. With 93 Primetime Emmy Awards to its name, SNL is one of the most celebrated television programs, known for its live and occasionally controversial moments.
Where to Watch Saturday Night Live
Viewers can catch Saturday Night Live (SNL) on NBC and Peacock. The show airs on NBC every Saturday, and the next day, it’s available for streaming on Peacock. SNL, a renowned sketch comedy and variety show, showcases celebrity hosts, musical performances, and a diverse cast delivering humorous sketches that often satirize current events and pop culture.
Who Played George Santos on SNL’s Latest Episode – FAQs
- Who played George Santos on the latest SNL episode?
Bowen Yang portrayed George Santos in the recent SNL episode’s cold open, showcasing his comedic take on the controversial Republican congressman. - When was George Santos expelled from the House of Representatives?
George Santos faced expulsion in a 311-114 majority vote on December 1, 2023, adding a satirical twist to SNL’s portrayal of real-life political events. - What song did Bowen Yang sing as George Santos in the sketch?
In the cold open, Bowen Yang, as George Santos, delivered a memorable farewell tribute by singing a reworked version of Elton John’s “Candle in the Wind,” humorously referencing Santos’s scandals. - What notable role did Bowen Yang play on SNL before becoming a featured player?
Bowen Yang initially joined SNL as a staff writer in September 2018 and later made history by becoming the first Chinese-American and third openly gay male cast member. - Where can viewers watch Saturday Night Live?
SNL can be watched on NBC every Saturday and is available for streaming on Peacock the following day, providing audiences with both live and on-demand options.
Uncover the comedic genius behind Bowen Yang’s George Santos and enjoy the laughter-filled world of SNL as it continues to bring humor and satire to our screens. For more of the latest news and trending stories, visit BuzRush, your go-to source for all things politics, technology, and entertainment.
