Bowen Yang will be absent from the Oct. 18 taping of “Saturday Night Live.” A source close to the show confirmed that Yang’s absence was planned in advance, allowing the Wicked star to accept the Academy Museum’s Vantage Award, which recognizes an emerging artist who challenges and reinterprets dominant narratives in television and film.
Despite missing the live taping, Yang reportedly contributed to writing the episode and will appear in a pre-taped sketch. Yang shared the news on his Instagram stories Saturday, explaining his brief departure from the show.
“Missing the show tonight but it will be sooooo fun,” he wrote, “Sabrina Carpenter is amazing.” As Yang noted, Sabrina Carpenter will serve as both host and musical guest for Saturday’s episode.
This will mark the hosting debut for the two-time Emmy winner, although she previously appeared as a musical guest for the Season 49 finale hosted by Jake Gyllenhaal. Carpenter also participated in “SNL 50: The Anniversary Special,” where she performed with Paul Simon and appeared in a sketch alongside Marcello Hernandez.
The Season 51 premiere was hosted by Bad Bunny with musical guest Doja Cat. Amy Poehler hosted the following episode, joined by musical guest Role Model. Other upcoming hosts include Miles Teller, returning for his second time on Nov. 26, as well as newcomers Nikki Glaser and Glen Powell, who will host on Nov. 8 and Nov. 15, respectively.
“Saturday Night Live” airs Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC and streams on Peacock. The show was created and is executive produced by Lorne Michaels, in association with Broadway Video.