Bowen Yang

The 'SNL' star on conversion therapy, dating while famous, and more

- MARLOW STERN

What does Pride Month mean to you in 2023?

Pride is that step beyond acceptance where there's some power in understanding who you are and why, and being in opposition to certain things. Culture and society afford you this clarity and this strength, and this year, especially, I feel it's very important.

What inspired you to be a comedian?

I think it came out of necessity from moving around a lot growing up. The thing I leaned on was to ingratiate myself in finding the quickest way to a laugh. With that instinct baked in, it led to me watching comedies, watching SNL every week. And after a certain amount of time, you convince yourself there's no other option for you.

You grew up in a strict Asian household. How did that affect your experience of being gay?