Ariana Grande reveals why Bowen Yang's SNL farewell was 'very special'

Ariana Grande opened up about her Wicked costar and friend Bowen Yang's final Saturday Night Live departure and performing beside her pal in his final SNL appearance.

In a recent chat with E! News at the red carpet of the 2026 Critics' Choice Awards on January 4 held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, the 32-year-old multihyphenate shared that being supportive of Bowen on his SNL milestone "was really special."

"I was really grateful, because I really just wanted to celebrate him and be there to support him, and I love him so much, and we're real friends for life. He's just so incredible."

Expressing her love and support for Bowen as a fan of his work, she continued, "I'm such a huge fan of his, so to be there for him in that moment as a friend and a fan was very special."

Ariana also shared some insights into her and Bowen's times at the Wicked's set.

"It feels actually really beautiful," the singer and actress shared.

"I think we're really proud of what we've done, and it was an amazing chapter, and now we've given it to the world and get to let them have it and enjoy it. It feels peaceful," The Disney alum added.