Top 15 SNL Cast Members Who Redefined Comedy Forever

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For over five decades, Saturday Night Live (SNL) has served as a fertile ground for comedy‘s most influential figures, representing an unpredictable and thrilling live trial that may have kickstarted more careers than any other entertainment entity. The impact of the show transcends its late-night airtime; it has molded the course of American humor, paving the way for sitcoms, stand-up acts, box office hits, and distinct comic perspectives.

In a sense, SNL is a peculiar entity. It’s a platform for launching new talents and simultaneously a demanding crucible. The cast members are immersed in a frenetic cycle of scriptwriting, intense rehearsals, and live shows where unexpected mishaps are common. Not everyone can handle this stressful atmosphere, but those who succeed often reshape the landscape of comedy.

Many remarkable comics didn’t merely traverse through Saturday Night Live—they ignited there, leveraging the show as a trampoline to greater accomplishments. They transformed their temporary (or extended) tenures into lasting triumphs, demonstrating that whether you’re a versatile sketch artist, an expert at impersonations, or a unique comedic force, Saturday Night Live is simply the starting point.

15
Bowen Yang

(2019 – Present)

Bowen Yang is one of the most captivating cast members on Saturday Night Live in recent times, offering a witty and unique comedic style that combines pop culture satire with intricate character performances. As the first Chinese-American and openly gay performer on SNL, he’s added a refreshing, crucial viewpoint to the show, causing a stir with instantly memorable sketches such as his Weekend Update segments as the Titanic iceberg, the boastful Chinese spy, and an exaggerated portrayal of the villainous M3GAN. His character-focused humor – whether it’s playing a demanding spin class instructor or a catty trade daddy in the Pride Month Song – seems both effortlessly natural and painstakingly crafted. He has also perfected the art of absurd humor, invigorating SNL’s traditional format with sketches that feel more like TikTok comedy fantasies than typical NBC skits.

The Future of SNL Comedy

Following his groundbreaking work on SNL, Yang has swiftly expanded his career beyond the realm of late-night comedy sketches. His film performances in “Fire Island” (2022) and “Dicks: The Musical” (2023) have showcased his versatility, earning him recognition as a scene-stealing talent in both romantic comedies and satirical productions. Simultaneously, his involvement with the podcast Las Culturistas has solidified his position as a sharp-witted cultural commentator. With his distinctive comedic style and an impressive body of work already under his belt, Yang is primed to emerge as one of the most influential comedians of his generation.

14
Kate McKinnon

(2012 – 2022)

scarcely can any Saturday Night Live (SNL) actors adapt as effortlessly as Kate McKinnon. Since she joined the troupe in 2012, she demonstrated herself to be an unparalleled force in sketch comedy, delivering a remarkable degree of dedication to each quirky, eccentric character she embodied. Be it her depiction of a kidnapped, cigarette-puffing oddball in the Close Encounters skits, a persistently flirtatious Rudy Giuliani, or a sidesplittingly stoic Hillary Clinton, McKinnon consistently raised the bar with her daring physicality and exceptional comedic sense. Her peculiar quirkiness became the soul of SNL during the 2010s, earning her a place among the cherished cast members of the show.

The Queen of Impressions

After departing from SNL, McKinnon has consistently held sway in the comedy world, demonstrating her knack for adapting her sketch prowess into larger productions. She garnered attention in movies such as the 2023’s “Barbie”, where her portrayal of “Weird Barbie” was one of the most buzzed-about roles, and “Bombshell” (2019), where she showcased her dramatic skills while retaining her comedic finesse. With her knack for blending physical comedy and intricate performances, McKinnon is forging a career that cements her as an enduring presence in comedy for the foreseeable future.

13
Bill Hader

(2005 – 2013)

Bill Hader wasn’t simply a Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast member; he was a master of sketch comedy, a performer so talented that his fellow actors frequently struggled to keep a straight face around him. Most recognized for his role as Stefon, the nightlife enthusiast on Weekend Update, Hader took a potentially one-dimensional character and transformed it into one of the show’s most cherished recurring skits. His knack for losing control during sketches—frequently due to writers unexpectedly feeding him new jokes at the last minute—only added to Stefon’s iconic status. However, beyond Stefon, Hader demonstrated an exceptional versatility, creating both chilling and amusing impressions of figures like Vincent Price, Al Pacino, and Alan Alda, while also shining in original characters such as the bewildering Italian talk show host Vinny Vedecci.

The King of Impressions and Chaos

Over the past few years, Bill Hader has significantly expanded his career horizons since his days on SNL, demonstrating that he’s not just a talented sketch comedian but also an accomplished actor and creator. His critically acclaimed HBO series “Barry” (2018-2023) showcased his unique blend of dark humor and psychological complexity, earning him several Emmy Awards for his portrayal as the title character. Additionally, he has become a sought-after voice actor in projects like “Inside Out” (2015) and “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” (2009), where he excelled at breathing life into eccentric characters. Now, with “Barry,” Hader has proven himself to be not just an SNL standout but also one of the most innovative minds in modern television.

12
Maya Rudolph

(2000 – 2007)

Maya Rudolph’s time on Saturday Night Live was marked by adaptability, flawless timing, and an almost royal knack for dominating a sketch with her presence alone. Regardless of whether she portrayed the flamboyant Donatella Versace, an exaggerated Beyoncé, or an utterly unhinged Oprah, she had a unique talent for turning every impression into something extraordinary. What truly set her apart wasn’t just her ability to mimic; it was the way she infused a dash of unpredictability into everything she did. Whether belting off-key as part of a spoof Destiny’s Child, playing a half-human baby with raging hormones in Wake Up Wakefield, or performing a bizarrely sensual “National Anthem” as Maya Angelou, she could transform any concept into comedic genius. She was also one of SNL’s finest musical performers, effortlessly combining her natural singing talent with comedic absurdity—her duet as Prince with Fred Armisen’s Beyoncé is still legendary today.

The Queen of Musical Comedy and Impressions

After departing from Saturday Night Live, Rudolph has experienced an incredibly smooth journey into the spotlight of mainstream comedy. She made memorable appearances in Bridesmaids (2011), led Loot (2022) on Apple TV+, and has become a well-loved voice actor in Big Mouth and The Mitchells vs. The Machines. However, her most enduring impact post-SNL might be her role as the preferred MVP for Hollywood awards shows—whether she hosted SNL as Kamala Harris or collaborated with Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, she consistently demonstrates her comedic prowess by enhancing whatever she engages with.

11
Will Ferrell

(1995 – 2002)

Not only was Will Ferrell hilarious, but he was utterly dedicated to his craft. He had an incredible knack for elevating even the simplest concepts into outrageous extremes. Be it portraying a father hysterically yelling at his son to get off the shed, an overzealous George W. Bush, or an office worker who took casual Fridays to the extreme, he brought a unique energy and humor to each role. His comedy on SNL was grandiose – encompassing physicality, emotion, and often reaching volumes that could resonate through the rafters. Who else could turn wearing a too-small crop top as a cheerleader into a recurring character or make “More cowbell!” one of the most frequently quoted lines in television history?

The Man Who Made Loud and Weird Masculinity a Genre

Ferrell’s career post-SNL embodies the epitome of success for an SNL alum, transitioning flawlessly from television to Hollywood. His breakout role in “Old School” (2003) elevated him to leading man status, while “Anchorman” (2004) cemented him as a comedy icon. Following this, he produced an unprecedented string of comedic masterpieces such as “Talladega Nights” (2006), “Step Brothers” (2008), and “Elf” (2003), demonstrating that his unique SNL style effortlessly translated to the big screen. In addition to acting, he co-founded Funny or Die, becoming a major influencer in digital comedy. Two decades after departing from SNL, Ferrell continues to stand out as an extraordinary figure in comedy – boisterous, eccentric, and indelibly memorable.

10
Kristen Wiig

(2005 – 2012)

As a film critic, I’d say that Kristen Wiig was an exceptional gem among the Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast. She had this unique knack for delivering absurd physical comedy, surreal sketches, cringeworthy characters, and biting social satire in a way that left you both laughing heartily and feeling deeply uneasy – a rare combination indeed!

Sketches like Target Lady, Gilly, and Penelope are perfect examples of her skill at making humor out of the awkward. Penelope, the compulsive liar who always felt the need to outdo everyone in the room, was particularly captivating.

However, it was in sketches where she played ‘normal’ characters reacting to the bizarre that Wiig truly excelled. In Surprise Party Sue and Secret Word, she demonstrated her exceptional talent for creating humor from discomfort. Her desperate struggle to maintain composure in Surprise Party Sue and her tone-deaf performance in Secret Word were nothing short of brilliant!

The Ultimate Comedy Chameleon

Following her stint on Saturday Night Live (SNL), Wiig made one of the most remarkable transitions in comedy history. In 2011, she co-wrote and starred in Bridesmaids, a film that not only established her as a significant comedic powerhouse but also redefined the terrain for female-led comedies. Instead of limiting herself to pure comedy, she has since explored a diverse spectrum of roles, spanning indie dramas like The Skeleton Twins and Mother!, to playing outright villainous characters such as in Wonder Woman 1984. Despite her cinematic achievements, Wiig continues to often appear on SNL as a guest, demonstrating that her knack for slipping into eccentric characters remains as keen as ever.

9
John Belushi

(1975 – 1979)

John Belushi was SNL’s initial groundbreaking star, a performer who didn’t just elicit laughter but commanded focus. A whirlwind of raw, unforeseeable energy, Belushi mirrored SNL’s early rebellious spirit, challenging the norms of what comedy could present on live television. His portrayals as an enraged Samurai, a gruff Joe Cocker, or a messy but brilliant Weekend Update commentator were iconic, yet none encapsulated his spirit quite like The Blues Brothers. In tandem with Dan Aykroyd, Belushi converted what could have been a fleeting sketch into a fully-fledged musical act that filled arenas and gave birth to a cult classic film.

SNL’s Original Rock Star

After leaving Saturday Night Live, Belushi’s career soared with films like “Animal House” (1978) and “The Blues Brothers” (1980). However, this rapid ascent was shadowed by a troubling aspect – his battles with substance abuse. Unfortunately, these struggles claimed his life at the young age of 33 in 1982. Despite his career being cut short, his influence on comedy is indisputable. Comedians who followed, such as Chris Farley, Will Ferrell, and Kate McKinnon, all owe a debt to Belushi for their wild, unpredictable, energetic performances. He was the prototype for SNL’s rebellious spirit, and his influence continues to resonate deeply within the very fabric of the show.

8
Phil Hartman

(1986 – 1994)

As a dedicated cinema enthusiast, let me tell you that Phil Hartman wasn’t merely one of Saturday Night Live’s (SNL) standout performers; he was the bedrock of the show during its comeback in the late ’80s and early ’90s. My fellow cast members affectionately dubbed him “The Glue” because of his unique blend of genius, steadfastness, and versatility. Hartman excelled in every role he played on SNL, proving himself as a master of his craft. From portraying the oily Bill Clinton devouring a McDonald’s meal during an interview, to unleashing an unhinged Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer, or delivering a spot-on Frank Sinatra, he took every sketch to new heights with his calm, almost professorial demeanor. Unlike some of my more flamboyant castmates, Hartman didn’t rely on shouting to be funny; his humor was finely tuned, meticulously planned, and remarkably incisive.

The Glue That Held SNL Together

After his departure from Saturday Night Live, Hartman continued to excel, lending his voice to iconic characters such as Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz on The Simpsons, and starring on NewsRadio where he solidified his status as one of the greatest comedic actors of his era. Sadly, his life was prematurely ended in 1998 due to a murder-suicide by his wife. This loss is still deeply felt within the SNL community, but Hartman’s comedic impact continues—few performers have ever equaled his unique blend of intelligence, absurdity, and effortless allure.

7
Chris Farley

(1990 – 1995)

Chris Farley didn’t merely dabble in comedy; instead, he relentlessly assaulted it. He threw himself, both physically and metaphorically, into every act with a vigor that appeared both dangerously reckless and impressively skilled. From toppling tables as the motivational speaker Matt Foley, causing David Spade to lose composure as a baffled Chippendale’s dancer, to shouting “Da Bears!” alongside the Superfans, Farley transformed excess into an artistic form. He possessed a unique talent for inducing laughter even before uttering a single word – his vitality, facial expressions, and mere stage presence were enough to trigger uproarious laughter from audiences. However, beneath all the shouting, perspiration, and slapstick humor, there was something genuinely endearing about Farley’s comedy. It was grandiose, but his heart was even larger.

The Tornado of Chaos and Heart

Farley’s journey from SNL to Hollywood was a stunning rise and premature end. His movies like “Tommy Boy” (1995) and “Black Sheep” (1996) made him a box-office sensation, yet his struggles with addiction cast a long shadow over his achievements. Sadly, he was destined to voice Shrek, but passed away in 1997 at the tender age of 33. His demise was a heartbreaking blow for comedy, but his influence continues unbroken—no one has managed to emulate the raw, anarchic hilarity that Farley brought to the screen. To this day, his SNL sketches remain among the most popular and cherished in the show’s history.

6
Amy Poehler

(2001 – 2008)

Amy Poehler joined Saturday Night Live in 2001 and instantly brought a unique blend of intense energy, absurdity, and sharp humor to the show. During her tenure, she excelled in diverse roles, from co-anchoring Weekend Update with Tina Fey and Seth Meyers to portraying eccentric characters like Kaitlin (“Rick! Rick! Can we stop at 7-Eleven?”) and an over-the-top Hillary Clinton. Her ability to switch between full-on silliness (Bronx Beat with Maya Rudolph) and spot-on political impressions (Hillary Clinton during the 2008 election cycle) was remarkable. Her comedic partnership with Tina Fey significantly shaped the SNL era of the early 2000s, and her fearless, all-in performance made her one of the show’s most dependable stars.

The MVP of Modern SNL

Amy Poehler’s success on Saturday Night Live paved the way for one of television’s most cherished sitcoms – Parks and Recreation (2009-2015), during which she transformed Leslie Knope into a pop culture phenomenon. She has continued to dominate comedy through her roles in Broad City (as a producer and recurring character), Inside Out (voice of Joy), and Making It (a heartwarming competition series alongside Nick Offerman). Alongside Tina Fey, she has become the preferred choice for hosting awards shows in Hollywood. Her accomplishments behind the camera demonstrate that she is just as gifted as a producer as she is an actor. Few Saturday Night Live alumni have managed to sustain such a consistent comedic impact, but Poehler has achieved this with the same infectious energy that made her a star initially.

5
Tina Fey

(2000 – 2006)

I, as a devoted fan, can attest to Tina Fey’s profound influence on Saturday Night Live (SNL) that transcended her role as a performer. In fact, she was a powerful force behind the scenes, making history as the first female head writer in the show’s illustrious history. Her work in the 2000s significantly reshaped SNL, infusing it with sharper, wittier, and more culturally relevant humor that resonated deeply with audiences.

During her tenure on Weekend Update, first alongside Jimmy Fallon and later with Amy Poehler, she introduced a sardonic, insightful wit that established a new standard for modern political satire. Yet, Tina Fey was more than just an exceptional writer; her Sarah Palin impression during the 2008 election became one of SNL’s most iconic pop culture moments. Her portrayal was so uncannily accurate that lines like “I can see Russia from my house” continue to be quoted, even though she never actually said it.

The Brains Behind SNL’s Modern Revival

Following her time on SNL, Tina Fey demonstrated that her abilities went way beyond just the sketch format. 30 Rock (2006-2013), her satirical depiction of network television, is still one of the wittiest comedies ever produced, combining quick-witted dialogue with humorously absurd and self-referential elements. After that, she moved on to Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and a series of successful films (Mean Girls, Sisters), solidifying herself as one of comedy’s most impactful figures. Regardless of whether she’s writing, acting, or producing, Fey’s unique comedic style—a blend of self-effacing intelligence and joyous absurdity—is always recognizable.

4
Gilda Radner

(1975 – 1980)

Gilda Radner wasn’t merely a brilliant Saturday Night Live (SNL) performer; she was SNL’s first genuine superstar, a comedian who could leave you in stitches while exuding both warmth and vulnerability. As one of the original Not Ready for Prime Time Players, Radner played a significant role in shaping SNL’s identity, creating an array of unforgettable characters that are still etched in our minds today: the adorable oddball Lisa Loopner, the erratic Roseanne Roseannadanna, and the confounded Emily Litella (“Never mind”). Her physical comedy was daring, her characters towered over life itself, and her enthusiasm was utterly contagious—she didn’t just play the fool; she adored being the fool, and this affection imbued some of the most delightful moments in early SNL history.

The Heart and Soul of SNL

Following my stint on Saturday Night Live, I embarked on an extraordinary journey, continuing to shine with a one-woman Broadway show titled Gilda Radner – Live from New York, penning a memoir called It’s Always Something, and tying the knot with fellow comedian Gene Wilder. Unfortunately, fate took a dark turn when ovarian cancer was detected in 1986, claiming my life at the tender age of 42 in 1989. Yet, my impact endures beyond measurement. I laid the groundwork for every female SNL star that emerged afterward, including luminaries such as Kristen Wiig and Kate McKinnon, demonstrating that women in comedy need not be relegated to sidekicks or romantic interests—they could be the room’s funniest presence. Today, Gilda’s Club, a cancer support organization, stands as a poignant reminder of my legacy, linking my name not only with laughter but also with love and compassion.

3
Mike Myers

(1989 – 1995)

Mike Myers was an indispensable figure on Saturday Night Live (SNL), crafting not only hilarious skits but entire universes within them. His forte lay in developing recurring characters that weren’t merely amusing for a brief moment; instead, they evolved into full-blown cultural sensations. For instance, the sketch known as “Wayne’s World” transcended its initial form and became a cornerstone of early ’90s humor, leading to two films and popularizing the term “Schwing!” in pop culture. Additionally, he brought us “Sprockets” featuring the side-splittingly robotic German art critic Dieter, as well as Linda Richman from “Coffee Talk,” who was characterized by her fervent enthusiasm (“It was like buttah”). Myers wasn’t merely amusing; rather, he exhibited an almost pathological devotion to comedy. He meticulously refined his characters and sketches until they reached the pinnacle of perfection, a dedication that ultimately paid off.

The Character Chameleon Who Built a Franchise Empire

Following his stint on SNL, Myers didn’t merely move to film; instead, he ruled it. The movie Austin Powers (1997) wasn’t just popular; it was a pivotal milestone in comedy, creating a character as memorable as any from the annals of SNL. Subsequently came Shrek (2001), demonstrating that his comedic flair could resonate across age groups. Although his later career has been less consistent, Myers’ influence on comedy remains indisputable. He played a significant role in shaping the comedy landscape of the ’90s and early 2000s, proving that sketch comedy was not confined to live TV—it could serve as the blueprint for some of the most successful blockbusters in Hollywood.

2
Eddie Murphy

(1980 – 1984)

When Eddie Murphy joined Saturday Night Live (SNL) in 1980, the show was on the brink of collapse. The original cast had departed, viewership was dwindling, and many believed that the end was near for this iconic sketch comedy series. However, Murphy, a prodigious 19-year-old comedian, didn’t just resuscitate SNL; he transformed it. He wasn’t merely a standout performer; he embodied the show itself. From his portrayals of Buckwheat and Mister Robinson’s Neighborhood to his unforgettable Stevie Wonder impersonation, Murphy didn’t simply act out sketches; he dominated them, infusing each scene with an invigorating energy that left audiences mesmerized. His rendition of “A Christmas Carol” (“White Like Me”) became a significant comedic and cultural milestone, and his legendary James Brown Hot Tub sketch remains one of the most remarkable demonstrations of physical comedy in SNL’s history.

The Man Who Saved SNL

Murphy’s career post-“Saturday Night Live” took off swiftly, making him the premier comedy figure of the ’80s. Films like “Beverly Hills Cop” (1984), “Trading Places” (1983), and “Coming to America” (1988) solidified his status as a movie star. His stand-up specials, particularly “Delirious” and “Raw,” pushed the envelope of comedy. Even when his career slowed down, Murphy consistently reinvented himself—be it through voice acting (“Shrek”), family comedies (“The Nutty Professor”), or prestigious roles (“Dolemite Is My Name”). His return to “SNL” in 2019 underscored his lasting impact—he didn’t merely come back; he reclaimed his position as king.

1
Adam Sandler

(1990 – 1995)

Adam Sandler’s stint on Saturday Night Live was an unconventional, offbeat, and distinctly ‘Sandler’ journey. Unlike some of his polished, impression-focused co-stars, Sandler’s humor was raw, zany, and frequently outlandish. He didn’t delve into political satire; instead, he sang tunes about lunch ladies and concocted absurd songs about Hanukkah. His characters, from the slow-witted Canteen Boy to the boisterous Cajun Man, were rooted in juvenile absurdity, yet Sandler’s unwavering dedication to silliness made it resonate. His appearances on Weekend Update—where he would half-sing, half-shout original songs about holidays or eccentric characters—became his trademark, helping him become one of Saturday Night Live’s most individual voices.

The Goofball Who Became a Box Office King

Adam Sandler’s post-SNL career stands out as one of the most successful in comedy history. Following his dismissal from the show in 1995, he swiftly demonstrated that the network had underestimated him with the release of “Billy Madison” (1995) and “Happy Gilmore” (1996), two beloved films that solidified him as the ruler of ’90s man-child comedy. After that, movies like “The Waterboy” (1998), “Big Daddy” (1999), and “50 First Dates” (2004) kept him at the forefront of the box office, making him one of Hollywood’s highest-paid comedians. However, in recent years, Sandler has also shown his dramatic skills, earning critical acclaim for roles in films such as “Punch-Drunk Love” (2002), “Uncut Gems” (2019), and the latest release “Hustle” (2022). Regardless of whether he’s creating dumb comedies with his friends or delivering Oscar-worthy performances, Sandler has constructed a career that reflects his own vision—a feat few comedians can boast.

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2025-02-24 01:04