Bowen Yang on the Collaborative Process of SNL

We were joined by Bowen Yang to talk about his Emmy nominated role on SNL and how how the different types of comedy that find their way into the show dictates his delivery. He talked about how with the specific format of the show, it was important to deliver what someone else has meticulously written rather than ad lib off of the cue cards like he would coming from an improv background. He led us through the process of collaboratively building his choices in the week leading up to taping the show and synthesizing different notes from the writers and cast members. Bowen also mentioned how important it was in the writing process to build the world towards where they want to take the audience and slowly feed them details rather than jump into the sketch right away. As someone who doesn’t identify as being good at impressions, he talked about how he worked to marry Andrew Yang’s public perception with his specific mannerisms to get the comedy right.

Watch the full conversation below.

Q&A on the series Saturday Night Live with actor & writer Bowen Yang. Moderated by Mara Webster, In Creative Company.

A famous guest host stars in parodies and sketches created by the cast of this witty show.