Celeste Yim, SNL’s First Trans and Nonbinary Writer, Departs After Five Years

Celeste Yim, celebrated as Saturday Night Live’s first out transgender and nonbinary writer, has officially announced their departure from the iconic NBC sketch comedy show after five years of dedicated work. Yim revealed the news in a candid Instagram post on Monday, August 25, 2025, offering insight into both the highs and lows of their tenure at SNL.

Yim joined Saturday Night Live’s writers’ room in 2020, quickly establishing themselves as a creative force within the team. Their promotion to writing supervisor in 2023 signaled both professional recognition and a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ visibility behind the scenes at one of television’s most storied programs. Throughout their time on SNL, Yim frequently collaborated with cast member Bowen Yang, another trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in comedy.

Yim’s rise within SNL showcased the growing commitment to diversity and inclusion in mainstream media, offering a visible platform for transgender and nonbinary talent in an industry that has historically marginalized these voices.

In their Instagram post, Yim described their time at SNL as both “grueling” and “the job that literally made all of my dreams come true.” Yim recounted sleeping in the office weekly and enduring difficult moments, including being “yelled at by random famous men” and, occasionally, “famous girls too.” Despite the hardships, Yim expressed deep gratitude for the friendships forged and the laughter shared, writing, “I loved it and I laughed every day and it’s where I grew up”.

Yim’s candid account offers a rare glimpse into the realities of working at SNL, especially for those who break new ground in terms of representation. Their openness about the challenges faced underscores the importance of support networks within the entertainment industry and the need for workplaces to prioritize the well-being of LGBTQ+ employees.

Yim’s departure comes at a pivotal moment for Saturday Night Live, as creator Lorne Michaels has confirmed that cast changes will precede the premiere of the show’s 51st season. While details about the new lineup remain undisclosed, Michaels’ statement signals a period of transition for the long-running series, which has continually evolved in response to cultural shifts.

The exit of a key LGBTQ+ creative voice raises questions about SNL’s ongoing commitment to diversity, both on and off screen. Yim’s work contributed to sketches that resonated with audiences seeking authentic representation, and their absence will be felt in the creative fabric of the show.

Yim’s legacy at SNL is profound. As the first out trans and nonbinary writer on the show, they paved the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ creatives. Their presence in the writers’ room brought nuance and authenticity to sketches, challenging stereotypes and broadening the scope of what stories could be told in late-night comedy.

The entertainment industry has made notable strides in recent years, with more LGBTQ+ individuals gaining visibility in front of and behind the camera. However, Yim’s departure is a reminder that progress must be continually nurtured and reinforced. Advocates stress the importance of building inclusive work environments where transgender and nonbinary people feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

The news of Yim’s exit has prompted an outpouring of support from fans, colleagues, and fellow LGBTQ+ entertainers. Bowen Yang, who worked closely with Yim on several popular sketches, posted a message of appreciation for their contributions and friendship. Many in the comedy world have recognized Yim’s impact, noting that their perspective and humor helped broaden SNL’s cultural relevance.

For many transgender and nonbinary viewers, seeing Yim succeed in such a prominent role has been meaningful. Their visibility has inspired aspiring writers and performers to imagine new possibilities for themselves in media and entertainment.

As Saturday Night Live prepares for its next chapter, LGBTQ+ advocates urge the show’s leadership to prioritize the hiring and retention of diverse talent. The presence of writers like Yim not only enriches the content but also signals to audiences that all stories are worth telling.

Yim’s journey serves as a testament to the importance of representation, resilience, and community within the entertainment industry. Their candor about the complexities of working at SNL highlights the ongoing need for structural change to ensure that LGBTQ+ voices are not only included but fully supported.

Celeste Yim’s departure from Saturday Night Live marks the end of a significant chapter in television history. Their contributions have left an indelible mark on the show and set a precedent for greater LGBTQ+ inclusion across media. As SNL moves forward, viewers and industry professionals alike will look to Yim’s legacy as a reminder of the power of authentic representation and the ongoing work required to achieve true inclusivity in entertainment.