Entertainment
10 Best 'Saturday Night Live' Casts, Ranked

# 10 Best 'Saturday Night Live' Casts, Ranked For nearly five decades, *Saturday Night Live* has been a cornerstone of American television, a cultura...
10 Best 'Saturday Night Live' Casts, Ranked
For nearly five decades, Saturday Night Live has been a cornerstone of American television, a cultural institution that has launched the careers of countless comedic legends. From its rebellious beginnings in 1975 to its current-day viral sketches, the show's enduring legacy is intrinsically linked to the ever-evolving ensemble of performers who grace the stage of Studio 8H. We don't just remember the sketches; we remember the casts that brought them to life. The chemistry, the range, and the sheer comedic firepower of a given era's cast can elevate the show from merely funny to truly transcendent. In this definitive ranking, we'll look back at the most iconic and influential ensembles in the show's storied history, celebrating the synergy and individual brilliance that define the very best SNL casts. These are the groups of performers who not only made us laugh but also shaped the comedic landscape for years to come.
10. The Digital Vanguard (Mid-2000s)
This era, roughly spanning from 2005 to 2011, saw a significant shift in how SNL's comedy was consumed, thanks in large part to the rise of the internet and the arrival of The Lonely Island.
### The Key Players
This cast was a murderer's row of talent that would go on to define comedy for the next decade. The core was anchored by the versatile Bill Hader, the character genius of Kristen Wiig, the charming everyman Jason Sudeikis, and the digital innovator Andy Samberg. These four were supported by the offbeat humor of Will Forte and the steady presence of long-time cast member Fred Armisen. This group's strength was its incredible range, seamlessly moving from bizarre character pieces to viral digital shorts.
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
The defining contribution of this cast was the "SNL Digital Short." The Lonely Island, a trio including Samberg and writers Jorma Taccone and Akiva Schaffer, revolutionized the show with pre-taped segments like "Lazy Sunday," which became one of the first viral YouTube videos. This innovation brought SNL to a new, younger audience online. Beyond the digital realm, this cast delivered iconic live sketches and characters. Kristen Wiig's repertoire of delightfully neurotic characters like the Target Lady and Gilly was a highlight, while Bill Hader's Stefon, co-created with John Mulaney, became one of the most beloved "Weekend Update" characters in the show's history.
9. The New Millennium Cast (Early 2000s)
The early 2000s were a period of transition for SNL, moving out of the Will Ferrell era and establishing a new comedic voice. This cast was anchored by a formidable group of women who would become titans of the industry.
### The Key Players
This era was defined by the powerhouse combination of Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, and Rachel Dratch. Fey, who also served as head writer, brought a sharp, intellectual wit to the show, while Poehler was a fearless and energetic performer. Maya Rudolph's incredible vocal talent and knack for impressions made her a standout, and Rachel Dratch consistently delivered memorable and bizarre characters. They were joined by the likes of Jimmy Fallon, whose charisma was evident in sketches like "The Barry Gibb Talk Show," and the delightfully absurd Horatio Sanz.
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
This cast's legacy is marked by its smart, female-driven comedy. The "Weekend Update" desk, with the dynamic duo of Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, was a high point, delivering incisive political commentary with a comedic bite. Rachel Dratch's "Debbie Downer" sketch is legendary for its ability to make the entire cast break character. Furthermore, this era produced classic sketches like "The Luvahs" with Will Ferrell and Rachel Dratch, and Maya Rudolph's unforgettable impersonation of Donatella Versace. This cast proved that a female-led ensemble could be just as, if not more, successful than its male-dominated predecessors.
8. The "Bad Boys" of SNL (Early to Mid-1990s)
The early '90s saw the rise of a group of performers who brought a more irreverent, and at times controversial, energy to the show. This era was defined by its stand-up comedy roots and a willingness to push boundaries.
### The Key Players
This cast was a who's who of future comedy movie stars, including Adam Sandler, Chris Farley, David Spade, Chris Rock, and Rob Schneider. Their "Bad Boy" reputation stemmed from their often raucous and anti-establishment humor. Sandler brought his unique brand of absurdist musical comedy with characters like Opera Man, while Farley was a force of nature, known for his incredible physical comedy. David Spade's sarcastic wit was a perfect foil for Farley's energy, and Chris Rock delivered sharp, socially conscious stand-up on "Weekend Update."
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
This era is remembered for its high-energy, often chaotic sketches. Chris Farley's portrayal of the motivational speaker Matt Foley, who lives in a "van down by the river," is one of the most iconic sketches in SNL history. "The Chris Farley Show," where a starstruck Farley would interview celebrities, was both hilarious and endearing. Adam Sandler's "The Chanukah Song" became a holiday classic, and the "Gap Girls" sketches featuring Farley, Spade, and Sandler were delightfully silly. While this era was criticized by some for its juvenile humor, its impact on comedy films of the '90s and beyond is undeniable.
7. The Return of Lorne (Late 1980s)
After a tumultuous period in the early '80s without Lorne Michaels at the helm, his return in 1985 ushered in a new golden age for the show, with a cast of incredibly versatile performers.
### The Key Players
This era was anchored by the immense talents of Dana Carvey, Phil Hartman, Jon Lovitz, Jan Hooks, and Kevin Nealon. Hartman, often called "The Glue" for his ability to hold any sketch together, was a master of impressions and played the perfect straight man. Carvey was a comedic chameleon, creating iconic characters like the Church Lady and his memorable impression of President George H.W. Bush. Jon Lovitz's Pathological Liar and Master Thespian were instant classics, and Jan Hooks was a versatile performer who could shine in any role.
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
This cast was known for its smart, character-driven comedy. The "Wayne's World" sketches, starring Mike Myers and Dana Carvey, became a cultural phenomenon, spawning two successful films. The Church Lady's "Isn't that special?" entered the pop culture lexicon, and Phil Hartman's "Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer" was a brilliant piece of satire. This era also featured sharp political humor, with Dana Carvey's impression of George H.W. Bush defining the president for a generation. This cast's professionalism and comedic talent revitalized the show and set the stage for the '90s.
6. The Groundlings Invasion (Late 1990s)
Following the departure of the "Bad Boys," SNL underwent another rebuilding phase, this time recruiting heavily from the Los Angeles-based improv troupe, The Groundlings.
### The Key Players
This cast was led by the comedic force of Will Ferrell, whose go-for-broke performance style made him a star. He was joined by fellow Groundlings alumni Cheri Oteri, Chris Kattan, and Ana Gasteyer, as well as the master impressionist Darrell Hammond. Molly Shannon, another standout, brought a unique brand of physical comedy to the show. This cast was known for its commitment to characters and its willingness to get weird.
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
This era is filled with iconic and endlessly quotable sketches. The "Celebrity Jeopardy!" sketches, with Will Ferrell as a perpetually exasperated Alex Trebek and Darrell Hammond as a belligerent Sean Connery, are among the most beloved in the show's history. "More Cowbell," featuring Ferrell and guest host Christopher Walken, is a masterclass in absurdist comedy. Molly Shannon's Mary Katherine Gallagher, the awkward Catholic schoolgirl, was a recurring character who even got her own movie. This cast's blend of broad comedy and clever satire made for a consistently hilarious and memorable period in SNL's history.
5. The Second Wave (Late 1970s)
After the departure of Chevy Chase, the original cast was bolstered by the arrival of a new member who would quickly become a comedy legend, solidifying the show's status as a cultural phenomenon.
### The Key Players
The core of the original cast—Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, Jane Curtin, Gilda Radner, Laraine Newman, and Garrett Morris—was joined by Bill Murray in the show's second season. Murray's dry, sarcastic wit was a perfect addition to the ensemble, and he quickly became a fan favorite. This cast was a true ensemble, with each member bringing a unique comedic sensibility to the table. From Belushi's anarchic energy to Radner's incredible character work, this group was firing on all cylinders.
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
This era produced some of the most enduring sketches in television history. "The Blues Brothers," starring Aykroyd and Belushi, became a cultural touchstone, leading to a hit album and a classic film. The "Coneheads" sketches were brilliantly bizarre, and Gilda Radner's characters like Roseanne Roseannadanna and Emily Litella were comedy gold. Bill Murray's smarmy lounge singer, Nick Winters, was a recurring highlight. This cast's rebellious spirit and groundbreaking comedy set the standard for what Saturday Night Live could be.
4. The Modern Powerhouse (2010s)
The 2010s saw the rise of a new generation of comedic talent that expertly blended political satire with delightfully absurd character work, creating some of the most viral moments in the show's recent history.
### The Key Players
This era was dominated by the singular talent of Kate McKinnon, whose incredible range and fearless performances made her the show's breakout star. She was surrounded by a strong supporting cast that included the charmingly goofy Aidy Bryant, the versatile Cecily Strong, and the hilarious Kenan Thompson, who by this point had become the show's longest-tenured cast member. The latter half of the decade saw the addition of featured players like Pete Davidson, whose "Weekend Update" segments often blurred the line between comedy and confession.
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
This cast is perhaps best known for its sharp political satire, particularly during the 2016 presidential election. Kate McKinnon's impression of Hillary Clinton and Alec Baldwin's guest appearances as Donald Trump were must-see TV. But this era was about more than just politics. McKinnon's "Close Encounter" sketches, where she played the chain-smoking alien abductee Colleen Rafferty, are all-time classics. The digital shorts continued to be a highlight with groups like Good Neighbor, and the cast's incredible chemistry was on full display in ensemble pieces like "The Californians."
3. The Reinvention (Early 1980s)
After the departure of the entire original cast and Lorne Michaels in 1980, the show was on the brink of cancellation. It was saved, almost single-handedly, by the arrival of a nineteen-year-old comedic genius.
### The Key Players
This era is, simply put, the Eddie Murphy era. While the cast around him had talented performers like Joe Piscopo, it was Murphy who became the show's first and biggest star after the original cast left. His charisma, energy, and incredible range were on full display every week. He was so popular that he became the only cast member to host the show while still a part of the cast.
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
Eddie Murphy created a gallery of unforgettable characters that are still beloved today. His updated take on "Mister Robinson's Neighborhood" was a brilliant piece of social satire. His portrayals of Gumby, Buckwheat, and James Brown were hilariously over-the-top. Murphy's "White Like Me" short film was a groundbreaking and incisive look at race in America. Without Eddie Murphy, it's very likely that Saturday Night Live would not have survived the early '80s. His singular talent not only saved the show but also created some of its most iconic moments.
2. The Not Ready for Prime Time Players (1975-1979)
The one that started it all. The original cast of Saturday Night Live was a group of comedic revolutionaries who changed television forever.
### The Key Players
The original "Not Ready for Prime Time Players" were Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, Chevy Chase, Jane Curtin, Garrett Morris, Laraine Newman, and Gilda Radner. This group of young, hungry performers brought a counter-cultural sensibility to network television that had never been seen before. Their chemistry was electric, and their willingness to push the envelope set the tone for everything that would follow.
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
The impact of this cast cannot be overstated. They created the very template for what SNL is. "Weekend Update," with Chevy Chase at the desk, redefined news satire. The "Samurai" sketches with John Belushi were brilliantly absurd. The "Landshark" sketch was a perfect parody of the blockbuster movie Jaws. Dan Aykroyd's fast-talking salesman in the "Super Bass-O-Matic '76" sketch was a masterclass in comedic timing. This cast was not just one of the best SNL casts; they were pioneers who created a television institution.
1. The Pantheon (Late '80s to Early '90s)
This era represents the perfect storm of comedic talent, a cast so deep and versatile that it's unlikely to ever be matched. This group seamlessly blended the character work of the late '80s with the emerging "Bad Boy" energy of the early '90s.
### The Key Players
This cast was an embarrassment of riches. It featured the Mount Rushmore of SNL talent: Phil Hartman, Dana Carvey, Mike Myers, Chris Farley, Adam Sandler, David Spade, and Chris Rock. They were supported by a stellar group of performers including Kevin Nealon, Jan Hooks, and Tim Meadows. This cast had everything: master impressionists, brilliant character actors, physical comedians, and sharp satirists. The sheer depth of talent meant that every sketch was packed with comedic heavyweights.
### Landmark Sketches and Legacy
The list of iconic sketches from this era is staggering. "Wayne's World," "Matt Foley: Motivational Speaker," "The Church Lady," "Hans and Franz," "Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer," and the "Gap Girls" all came from this period. The political satire was top-notch, with Dana Carvey's George H.W. Bush and Phil Hartman's Bill Clinton becoming definitive portrayals. This cast had an incredible ability to create characters and catchphrases that became ingrained in the cultural consciousness. They were a true ensemble, with a chemistry and comedic firepower that remains the gold standard for Saturday Night Live.
Saturday Night Live has seen countless cast members come and go, each leaving their own unique mark on the show's incredible legacy. While every era has its highlights, these ten casts represent the pinnacle of comedic talent, chemistry, and cultural impact. They are the ensembles that not only defined their respective eras but also elevated the show to legendary status, ensuring its place as a cornerstone of American comedy for generations to come.