Here are the Top 10 Saturday Night Live cast members of all time, in no particular order, but certainly deserving of a top spot.
Saturday Night Live (SNL) has been a staple of late-night television for over four decades. It’s a show that has given birth to some of the most beloved comedians and actors in the world. Since its debut in 1975, SNL has been home to an impressive roster of cast members who have dazzled audiences with their comedic brilliance.
10 Saturday Night Live cast members of all time
Eddie Murphy
When Eddie Murphy joined SNL in 1980, the show was going through a rough patch. He quickly became the saving grace. His larger-than-life characters, like Gumby, Mr. Robinson, and Buckwheat, revitalized the show.
Murphy’s energy, charisma, and raw talent helped bring SNL back into the spotlight and set the stage for his successful film career. His unforgettable stint on SNL remains one of the most celebrated eras in the show’s history.
Tina Fey
Tina Fey didn’t just shine as a cast member; she became the show’s first female head writer in 1999. Known for her whip-smart, dry sense of humor, Fey created some iconic moments, most notably as Sarah Palin during the 2008 presidential election.
Her “I can see Russia from my house!” sketch went viral long before viral videos were a thing. Fey’s witty, sharp style of comedy paved the way for future female comedians on the show, and her legacy lives on through her work on shows like 30 Rock.
Will Ferrell
Will Ferrell’s comedy is so absurd and so brilliant that it’s impossible to think about SNL without recalling some of his most iconic sketches. From his portrayal of President George W. Bush to the
hilariously over-the-top Spartan cheerleader and the unforgettable “More Cowbell” sketch, Ferrell’s time on SNL was one of the most laugh-out-loud eras in the show’s history. His fearless commitment to his characters, no matter how bizarre, made him an SNL legend.
Gilda Radner
One of the original cast members, Gilda Radner’s quirky and infectious personality made her a standout right from the start. Characters like Roseanne Roseannadanna, Emily Litella, and Lisa Loopner made her a fan favorite.
Radner’s humor was goofy yet heartfelt, and she had a unique ability to make audiences laugh while also showcasing vulnerability. She remains a beloved figure in SNL history, remembered as a trailblazer for female comedians.
Bill Murray
Bill Murray joined the SNL cast in its second season, following the departure of Chevy Chase. Initially facing challenges fitting in, Murray soon became a fan favorite. His dry humor, impeccable
timing, and ability to play both lovable goofs and smarmy jerks won over audiences. His recurring roles, like lounge singer Nick the Lounge Singer, showcased his unique style, which would go on to define his career in film comedies.
Kristen Wiig
Kristen Wiig was the kind of performer who could take the most absurd characters and bring them to life with a blend of quirkiness and authenticity. From the overly enthusiastic Target lady to the bizarrely hilarious Dooneese, the sister with tiny
hands, Wiig consistently delivered scene-stealing performances. She was a versatile player who could switch effortlessly between zany, awkward, and downright hysterical. Wiig’s departure from SNL was a huge loss, but she left behind a treasure trove of unforgettable moments.
Chris Farley
Larger than life, both in personality and physicality, Chris Farley was one of SNL’s brightest stars in the early ‘90s. His high-energy performances, physical comedy, and commitment to his characters made him an immediate fan favorite.
The “Matt Foley: Motivational Speaker” sketch, where Farley’s character lives “in a van down by the river,” remains one of the most beloved moments in SNL history. Farley’s comedy was fearless, often teetering on the edge of chaos, but his warmth always shone through.
Kate McKinnon
Since joining SNL in 2012, Kate McKinnon has been a force to be reckoned with. Her impressions are impeccable, with standout portrayals of Hillary Clinton, Justin Bieber, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. McKinnon’s commitment to every role, whether it’s
a spot-on impression or an original, eccentric character, has made her one of the most versatile and beloved cast members of the modern era. She’s a powerhouse of comedic talent, and her ability to completely disappear into a role has earned her multiple Emmy Awards.
Phil Hartman
Phil Hartman was the glue that held SNL together during his time on the show in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. He was known as “The Glue” because of his ability to hold sketches together with his versatile range and flawless delivery.
Whether he was playing the smarmy Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer or his dead-on impressions of Bill Clinton, Hartman brought a level of professionalism and talent that elevated the entire show. His tragic death in 1998 was a significant loss to the world of comedy.
Amy Poehler
Amy Poehler’s time on SNL solidified her as one of the most versatile and talented comedians of her generation. She was both a writer and performer, and her range of characters—from the manic Kaitlin
to the brash one-legged Amber—kept audiences on their toes. Paired with Tina Fey on Weekend Update, the duo became one of the most iconic anchors in SNL history, delivering smart and sharp commentary that helped usher in a new era of female-driven comedy on the show.
Hope you enjoyed these 10 Saturday Night Live cast members of all time
