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Bowen Yang reflects on the joy of being back in New York City, a place he considers his true home after spending time away. He humorously describes himself as “an asshole” in the city, a testament to his comfort and familiarity with the vibrant urban lifestyle. As he navigates through the hustle of NYC, from fast-paced pedestrians to overpriced brunch options, he feels liberated from the pressures of being a tourist.
Yang’s recent month-long stint in Vancouver was devoted to shooting The Wedding Banquet, a contemporary adaptation of the 1993 film exploring themes of queer identity and familial bonds. He mentions enjoying the more laid-back version of himself that emerged during the filming process.
During our brunch meeting in a Manhattan restaurant near 30 Rock, where Saturday Night Live is filmed, Yang embodies a blend of approachability and star quality. Recently, he has been on a whirlwind of projects, including notable appearances alongside major icons on his hit podcast, Las Culturistas, which has featured celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Cate Blanchett.
Yang reminisces about the inclusive environments he encountered in Vancouver’s queer spaces. He humorously comments on the earnestness of events, adding a lighthearted critique based on his NYC perspective. In his experience, the atmosphere of queer spaces in America differs notably, often lacking the same level of intentionality seen abroad.
While he originally hails from Brisbane, Australia, and has lived in various places, Yang considers himself a New Yorker in spirit after moving there for college 17 years ago. This experience has shaped his identity, making him feel a part of the city’s rhythm, reflected in the mundane mishaps of city living.
His formative encounter with The Wedding Banquet occurred while he was a student at NYU, where the film struck a personal chord during his own struggles with identity. He recalls the uncertainty of the film’s conclusion, which mirrored his own familial relations when he came out. His parents have gradually become more accepting, though he is still cautious about sharing personal details.
Yang appreciates that The Wedding Banquet avoids typical cultural clichés surrounding representation. He critiques the notion that there has historically been a lack of Asian representation in media, arguing that meaningful work has always existed, even if it wasn’t mainstream. According to him, contemporary films like Crazy Rich Asians and Everything Everywhere All At Once have opened new avenues for visibility, but the depth of representation pales in comparison to the eclectic nature of indie cinema from decades past.
In Ahn’s updated take on the original story, Yang’s character Chris reflects a relatable struggle with commitment in a complex web of relationships. He notes the film’s depth in exploring personal significance and the necessity of human connection, themes that resonate with numerous individuals navigating their own lives.
Years after making his mark as an on-air cast member of Saturday Night Live—being both the third openly gay man and the first Chinese American in the show’s history—Yang initially hesitated to take on a grand ambassador role at a local pride event. He admits it stemmed from his own insecurities, believing that true representation was reserved for those who had blazed trails long before him.
Yang reveals that the frenetic nature of fame took a toll on his mental wellness, leading to a dissociative experience during extensive filming schedules that left him unmoored. He candidly acknowledges the pressures of celebrity culture and emphasizes the need for self-reflection as one navigates the complexities of public life in today’s environment.
This journey through self-discovery has encouraged Yang to prioritize steadiness over a chaotic lifestyle, pushing him to reassess his professional commitments and personal relationships. As he seeks a more meaningful existence, he shares his struggles with balancing romance amidst professional obligations.
Reflecting on a family trip to Brisbane, Yang contemplates the connections to his heritage and how they inform his identity. His mother’s insistence on exploring their roots emphasizes the significance of understanding one’s origins amidst his quest for belonging—a recurring theme in his body of work.
In his filmography, Yang consistently grapples with the notion of finding one’s tribe rather than geographical belonging, an exploration that resonates deeply throughout his various roles. As he thinks back to his early days in comedy at NYU, he recognizes the evolution of queer representation within the industry and the importance of community among LGBTQ+ comedians.
With a clear vision of the networks he hopes to cultivate, Yang remains optimistic about the future of queer storytelling and embraces his position within it. He plans to remain grounded in his NYC community while continuously working on projects that reflect his own life experiences and resonate with audiences.
Source
www.bustle.com