NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 15: Bowen Yang attends the Las Culturistas Culture Awards at Kings Theatre on June 15, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by John Nacion/Getty Images)
Saturday Night Live cast member Bowen Yang spoke out on social media this week to clarify the intentions behind a recent sketch amid criticism from some fans.
Yang came under fire for his portrayal this past Saturday of Moo Deng, a zoo hippopotamus who gained online notoriety. Within the sketch, Yang’s character jokingly channeled quotes from pop star Chappell Roan regarding boundaries with devoted fans.
However, portions of Roan’s audience misconstrued the parody as mocking her reasonable requests for space. In an since-expired Instagram story, Yang addressed the misinterpretation.
“Iif my personal stance and the piece aren’t absolutely clear in terms of supporting her then there it is i guess,” Yang stated. The comedian had recently interviewed Roan for a magazine, discussing celeb-fan dynamics.
Yang went on to affirm respect for boundaries set by public figures like Roan. “Everything she has ever asked for has been reasonable and even then we can connect it to another story about boundaries or whatever,” he commented. Yang also reiterated a joke from the skit to emphasize comedic, not critical, intent.
The comedian’s clarification comes amid Roan cancelling upcoming concerts citing feeling overwhelmed. In a statement, Roan explained needing a well-being break despite desire to perform.
