The Most Successful 'Saturday Night Live' Alumni

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Updated October 1, 2024 115.3K views 134 items
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Vote up the former 'SNL' cast members who have done the most impressive work after their time on the show.

This list of the most successful Saturday Night Live alumni in the show’s history, has been ranked by SNL fans. In the 45+ seasons SNL has been on the air, there have been hundreds of cast members, each comedian bringing laughter into the homes of millions for multiple generations. Every few years cast members leave to pursue their acting, stand-up comedy, producing, and writing careers, making way for new cast members to become the new faces of sketch comedy. Many of the alumni of Saturday Night Live went on to be some of the most famous actors in movies, television, and theater.

Many comedic actors who are most known for their movies that make hundreds of millions of dollars got their start on SNL, such as Adam Sandler, Will Ferrell, and Eddie Murphy. Other former SNL cast mates went on to create and/or star in some of the most successful television shows, such as Tina Fey’s 30 Rock and Amy Poehler’s Parks and Recreation. Jimmy Fallon ended up a late night host.

Which SNL cast members went on to have amazingly successful careers? Whose career simply faded away? Which are the most successful SNL alumni? Of the SNL full cast, there has been a wide range of success. This least features the Saturday Night Live alumni with the most success under their belts, many of which who have (and some who have not) returned to host the show that launched their careers.

 

Most divisive: Sarah Silverman
Over 4.6K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Most Successful 'Saturday Night Live' Alumni
  • Bill Murray
    1
    Iron Chef America, SCTV Network 90, Banzai
    2,216 votes

    A true comedy legend, Bill Murray found his footing during his time as a cast member on Saturday Night Live. Since then, he has captivated audiences with his talent and charm in films such as Ghostbusters, Groundhog Day, and Lost in Translation. His unique style of humor and wit has solidified his place as one of the most successful SNL alumni to date.

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    • He Actually Bowled The Turkey In 'Kingpin'
      1He Actually Bowled The Turkey In 'Kingpin'
      259 Votes
    • A Piece Of Art Convinced Him Not To Take His Own Life
      2A Piece Of Art Convinced Him Not To Take His Own Life
      194 Votes
    • He Improvised Basically All His Lines In 'Caddyshack'
      3He Improvised Basically All His Lines In 'Caddyshack'
      141 Votes
  • Will Ferrell
    2
    Saturday Night Live, Eastbound & Down, Tim and Eric Awesome Show
    2,193 votes

    Emerging from the halls of the iconic SNL studio, Will Ferrell has undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the comedy world. With memorable characters and hilarious skits under his belt, Ferrell went on to showcase his comedic prowess in films like Anchorman, Step Brothers, and Old School. His undeniable gift for making people laugh continues to shape his thriving career in film and television.

  • Adam Sandler
    3
    Saturday Night Live, Rules of Engagement, Remote Control
    2,041 votes

    Launching his career on the Saturday Night Live stage, Adam Sandler created a string of unforgettable characters and musical moments. He later conquered Hollywood with a slew of box office hits like Billy Madison, Happy Gilmore, and The Wedding Singer. Sandler's incredible success as both an actor and comedian can be traced back to his SNL roots.

  • Eddie Murphy
    4
    Saturday Night Live, Shrek the Halls, The PJs
    2,085 votes

    SNL provided Eddie Murphy with the platform to become one of the most successful comedians of all time. After captivating millions with his incredible impressions and unforgettable stand-up routines, he went on to conquer the big screen with classics like Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, and The Nutty Professor. Today, Murphy continues to exemplify the limitless potential of an SNL alumnus.

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    • Trading Places
      1Trading Places
      763 Votes
    • Beverly Hills Cop
      2Beverly Hills Cop
      806 Votes
    • Coming to America
      3Coming to America
      863 Votes
  • Tina Fey
    5
    30 Rock, Saturday Night Live, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
    2,042 votes

    Witty and intelligent, Tina Fey quickly made a name for herself as a writer and performer on Saturday Night Live. Her transition from SNL to creating and starring in the hit series 30 Rock further established her as a force in the entertainment industry. She continues to pave the way for other female comedians while maintaining her status as one of the most successful SNL alumni.

  • Dan Aykroyd
    6
    Saturday Night Live, The Real Ghostbusters, Psi Factor: Chronicles of the Paranormal
    1,564 votes

    From his iconic characters on SNL to his unforgettable role in The Blues Brothers, Dan Aykroyd's contributions to comedy are immeasurable. After leaving the sketch comedy show, he continued to make audiences laugh in films like Ghostbusters and Trading Places. Aykroyd's career serves as a testament to the power of SNL as a launchpad for comedic stardom.

  • Amy Poehler
    7
    Parks and Recreation, Saturday Night Live, Broad City
    1,396 votes

    Amy Poehler arrived on the SNL scene with a bang, creating unforgettable characters and delivering pitch-perfect impressions. Her post-SNL success can be seen in her starring role on the hit series Parks and Recreation and the founding of the influential Upright Citizens Brigade comedy troupe. Poehler's trailblazing career makes it clear that she's one of the most successful and influential comedians of her generation.

  • Chris Rock
    8
    In Living Color, Everybody Hates Chris, The Chris Rock Show
    1,481 votes

    SNL proved to be the perfect starting point for Chris Rock's illustrious career in comedy. After establishing himself as a fan-favorite on the show, he went on to make waves with his groundbreaking stand-up specials and film roles. Rock’s remarkable journey from SNL cast member to Hollywood powerhouse is a testament to his incredible talent and determination.

  • Robert Downey Jr.
    9
    Ally McBeal, The Twilight Zone, Mussolini: The Untold Story
    1,778 votes

    Although Robert Downey Jr.'s time on SNL was brief, it contributed to the foundation of his incredible acting career. Since then, his charm, versatility, and talent have brought him immense success with roles ranging from Iron Man to Sherlock Holmes. Despite early hardships, Downey has continuously showcased his commitment to the craft and remains an inspiration to many aspiring performers.

  • Mike Myers
    10
    Saturday Night Live, Bizarre, King of Kensington
    1,563 votes

    Mike Myers' time on SNL saw the birth of some of the most memorable characters in the show's history, including Wayne Campbell and Dieter. It wasn't long before Myers took these fan-favorite creations to the big screen in hits like Wayne's World and Austin Powers. With his undeniable gift for character-driven comedy, Myers remains one of the brightest stars born from the SNL stage.

  • Jimmy Fallon
    11
    30 Rock, Saturday Night Live, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon
    1,934 votes

    As an SNL cast member, Jimmy Fallon quickly won over fans with his impeccable impersonations and musical parodies. His undeniable charisma and wit later propelled him into the talk show circuit, where he now charms millions each night as host of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Fallon's trajectory from SNL to late-night royalty is a testament to his enduring appeal and comedic prowess.

  • Chris Farley
    12
    Tom
    1,451 votes

    The world may have tragically lost Chris Farley early in his career, but his impact on comedy remains undeniable. His time on SNL showcased his unmatched physical humor and larger-than-life presence. Farley's ability to bring joy and laughter to audiences through his memorable characters will forever solidify his status as one of the most beloved SNL alumni.

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    • Tommy Boy
      1Tommy Boy
      324 Votes
    • Black Sheep
      2Black Sheep
      224 Votes
    • Beverly Hills Ninja
      3Beverly Hills Ninja
      191 Votes
  • Julia Louis-Dreyfus
    13
    Seinfeld, Saturday Night Live, Veep
    1,318 votes

    Julia Louis-Dreyfus may have gotten her start on SNL, but it was her role as Elaine Benes on Seinfeld that truly solidified her status as a comedy legend. Since then, she has continued to dominate both the small and big screens, racking up multiple Emmy Awards. Her incredible talent and tenacity showcase that an SNL alumnus can achieve great heights in the entertainment industry.

  • Chevy Chase
    14
    Community, Saturday Night Live, The Chevy Chase Show
    1,499 votes

    As one of the first breakout stars of SNL, Chevy Chase captivated audiences with his quick wit and physical comedy. He continued to make an impact on the entertainment world with roles in hit films like Caddyshack and National Lampoon's Vacation. Chase's undeniable talent and charm made him a pioneer among his fellow SNL alumni.

  • Ben Stiller
    15
    Mr. Show with Bob and David, The Ben Stiller Show, Wish Kids
    1,300 votes

    Though Ben Stiller's tenure on SNL was short-lived, he managed to make a lasting impression on the world of comedy. Following his time on the show, Stiller went on to write, direct, and star in numerous hit films such as Zoolander and Tropic Thunder. His continued success in the industry underlines the significance of SNL as a breeding ground for comedic talent.

  • John Belushi
    16
    Saturday Night Live, The Richard Pryor Show
    1,235 votes

    As one of the original cast members of SNL, John Belushi quickly became a household name with his iconic performances and boundless energy. He went on to achieve superstardom with films such as Animal House and The Blues Brothers, solidifying his place in comedy history. Though Belushi's life was tragically cut short, his legacy as a trailblazing SNL alumnus lives on.

  • Kristen Wiig
    17
    Saturday Night Live, Bored to Death, The Looney Tunes Show
    1,431 votes

    With her unique brand of humor and fearless approach to sketch comedy, Kristen Wiig quickly became an SNL favorite. After leaving the show, she went on to find incredible success with the film Bridesmaids, which she co-wrote and starred in. Wiig's journey from SNL cast member to Hollywood A-lister demonstrates the powerful potential of an SNL resume.

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    • Bridesmaids
      1Bridesmaids
      128 Votes
    • Despicable Me
      2Despicable Me
      60 Votes
    • Girl Most Likely
      3Girl Most Likely
      46 Votes
  • Bill Hader
    18
    South Park, Saturday Night Live, The Mindy Project
    1,058 votes

    Widely regarded for his incredible range of impressions and memorable characters, Bill Hader solidified his status as an SNL great during his time on the show. Post-SNL, Hader has expanded his repertoire to include writing, directing, and starring in the critically acclaimed HBO series Barry. His commitment and perseverance in the industry make him an exemplary SNL success story.

  • Martin Short
    19
    Damages, Merlin, SCTV Channel
    1,118 votes

    Best known for his larger-than-life characters and boundless energy, Martin Short cemented himself as an unforgettable force in comedy during his time on SNL. He continued to showcase his immense talent in film and television projects such as Three Amigos and Father of the Bride. Short remains a prime example of how SNL can propel a performer to incredible heights.

  • David Spade
    20
    Saturday Night Live, Beavis and Butt-head, Rules of Engagement
    1,127 votes

    Bolstered by his trademark sarcasm and snark, David Spade gained a devoted following during his time on Saturday Night Live. After leaving the show, he became a successful comedic actor with roles in films such as Tommy Boy and Joe Dirt. His unique brand of humor has ensured his place in the pantheon of great SNL alumni.

  • Billy Crystal
    21
    Saturday Night Live, Soap, The Critic
    1,298 votes

    During his brief stint on SNL, Billy Crystal managed to leave a lasting impression with his unparalleled wit and undeniable charm. His career post-SNL includes iconic films like When Harry Met Sally and City Slickers, as well as hosting the Academy Awards multiple times. Crystal's continued success in the entertainment industry is a testament to his immense talent.

  • Jason Sudeikis
    22
    Saturday Night Live, The Cleveland Show, Eastbound & Down
    954 votes

    Jason Sudeikis brought audiences to their feet with his comedic versatility and relatable characters during his tenure on SNL. Since moving on from the sketch comedy show, Sudeikis has found success on both television and film, including his critically acclaimed role in Ted Lasso. The meteoric rise of this talented actor and comedian can be traced back to SNL's hallowed halls.

  • Andy Samberg
    23
    Saturday Night Live, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Freaknik: The Musical
    1,206 votes

    Originally known for his wildly popular digital shorts on SNL, Andy Samberg has since evolved into a multifaceted force in the entertainment industry. As the star and co-creator of the hit series Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Samberg has showcased his ability to transition seamlessly from sketch comedy to television success. His unrelenting ambition and creativity have elevated him to an esteemed position among SNL alumni.

  • Phil Hartman
    24
    The Simpsons, Saturday Night Live, The Jetsons
    1,010 votes

    Throughout his time on SNL, Phil Hartman became known for his incredible range and mastery of character-driven comedy. His unforgettable performances on the show led to successful roles in television series like NewsRadio and The Simpsons. Though Hartman's life was tragically cut short, his contributions to comedy remain an indelible part of his SNL legacy.

  • Dana Carvey
    25
    Saturday Night Live, The Dana Carvey Show, Blue Thunder
    1,085 votes

    Best known for his hilarious impressions and memorable characters, Dana Carvey became a fan-favorite during his time on SNL. His iconic role as Garth Algar in Wayne's World catapulted him to Hollywood success, and he continues to entertain audiences with his unique style. Carvey's enduring appeal makes it clear that his roots on SNL have played a significant role in his ongoing success.

  • Kate McKinnon
    26
    Saturday Night Live, Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday, The Big Gay Sketch Show
    424 votes

    Since making her SNL debut, Kate McKinnon has continuously dazzled audiences with her impeccable impersonations and unwavering commitment to character. Her talent has earned her numerous Emmy Awards and led to roles in films such as Ghostbusters and Bombshell. McKinnon's rapid ascent in the entertainment world can be traced back to her beginnings as an SNL standout.

  • Gilda Radner
    27
    Saturday Night Live, Dr. Zonk and the Zunkins, Music for UNICEF Concert
    952 votes

    As one of the original "Not Ready for Prime Time Players," Gilda Radner delivered unforgettable performances on SNL with her unique blend of humor and heart. Her iconic characters, such as Roseanne Roseannadanna and Emily Litella, continue to live on in comedy history. Radner's trailblazing work on SNL serves as an inspiration for countless future comedians.

  • Maya Rudolph
    28
    Up All Night, TV Funhouse, City of Angels
    961 votes

    Maya Rudolph emerged as a comedic powerhouse during her time on SNL, captivating audiences with her pitch-perfect impressions and hilarious characters. She continued to showcase her incredible talent and versatility in projects like Bridesmaids and The Good Place. Rudolph's journey from SNL cast member to Hollywood success story is a testament to her undeniable skills.

  • Tracy Morgan
    29
    30 Rock, The Tracy Morgan Show, Where My Dogs At?
    940 votes

    With his unique sense of humor and fearless approach to comedy, Tracy Morgan became an SNL fan-favorite during his time on the show. After leaving SNL, he found immense success with roles in hit series like 30 Rock and The Last O.G. Morgan's perseverance and determination serve as an inspiration for future generations of SNL performers and beyond.

  • Seth Meyers
    30
    Saturday Night Live, Late Night with Seth Meyers, Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday
    321 votes

    Known for his sharp humor and clever writing, Seth Meyers quickly became an SNL favorite during his tenure on the show. After serving as a head writer and anchoring the Weekend Update segment, Meyers went on to host his own late-night talk show, Late Night with Seth Meyers. His impressive career trajectory exemplifies the power of SNL as a launchpad for future success.

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    • Norm Macdonald
      1Norm Macdonald
      5,337 Votes
    • Michael Che & Colin Jost
      2Michael Che & Colin Jost
      3,878 Votes
    • Dennis Miller
      3Dennis Miller
      3,869 Votes
  • Jon Lovitz
    31
    NewsRadio, The Critic, Foley Square
    822 votes

    Jon Lovitz made his mark on SNL with his signature wit and unforgettable characters. His comedy career continued to flourish after leaving the show, with film and television roles in projects such as A League of Their Own and The Critic. Lovitz's undeniable talent and charisma have earned him a place among the most successful SNL alumni.

  • Norm Macdonald
    32
    The Norm Show, Celebrity Jeopardy!, A Minute with Stan Hooper
    850 votes

    During his tenure on SNL, Norm Macdonald became known for his sardonic wit and deadpan delivery, particularly as anchor of the Weekend Update segment. He continued to showcase his unique brand of humor in films and television shows, as well as his critically acclaimed stand-up specials. Macdonald's indelible impact on comedy is proof of the power of SNL's stage.

  • Molly Shannon
    33
    Saturday Night Live, Web Therapy, Cracking Up
    715 votes

    Molly Shannon's fearless commitment to character and physical comedy earned her a devoted following during her time on SNL. Her post-SNL success includes roles in film and television projects like Superstar and Divorce. Shannon's ability to make audiences laugh and connect with her characters serves as a testament to the power of SNL as a launchpad for comedic success.

  • Kenan Thompson
    34
    Saturday Night Live, Kenan & Kel, All That
    710 votes

    As the longest-serving cast member in SNL history, Kenan Thompson has consistently delighted viewers with his spot-on impressions and hilarious sketches. In addition to his television success, he has also appeared in films such as Good Burger and Fat Albert. Thompson's ongoing career at SNL highlights the show's unique ability to foster and retain incredible talent.

  • Jane Curtin
    35
    Saturday Night Live, 3rd Rock from the Sun, Unforgettable
    751 votes

    Jane Curtin's deadpan delivery and sharp wit helped solidify her status as an original "Not Ready for Prime Time Player" on SNL. Her successful post-SNL career includes roles in popular television series like Kate & Allie and 3rd Rock from the Sun. Curtin's contributions to comedy and SNL's history showcase her incredible talent and the transformative power of the show.

  • Rob Schneider
    36
    Men Behaving Badly, Rob, Jancis Robinson's Wine Course
    933 votes

    Rob Schneider quickly became an SNL favorite thanks to his quirky characters and memorable catchphrases. After leaving the show, he starred in a string of successful comedies, including Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo and The Hot Chick. Schneider's journey from TV sketch performer to movie star demonstrates the lasting impact of SNL on an actor's career.

  • Damon Wayans
    37
    Saturday Night Live, In Living Color, My Wife and Kids
    698 votes

    Though his time on SNL was brief, Damon Wayans left a lasting impression with his undeniable comedic talent. He went on to co-create and star in the groundbreaking sketch comedy show In Living Color, which launched numerous careers and solidified Wayans' status as a comedy legend. Today, his contributions to the entertainment world remain influential and celebrated.

  • Tim Meadows
    38
    Marry Me, Glory Daze, The Michael Richards Show
    631 votes

    Tim Meadows' smooth charm and memorable characters made him a beloved fixture during his lengthy tenure on SNL. Following his departure from the show, Meadows found success in films like Mean Girls and television series such as The Goldbergs. His continued work in the entertainment industry confirms the lasting impact of SNL on a performer's career.

  • Kevin Nealon
    39
    Saturday Night Live, Weeds, Crank Yankers
    646 votes

    Kevin Nealon's dry wit and deadpan delivery made him a standout cast member on SNL, where he notably anchored the Weekend Update segment. After leaving the show, Nealon went on to find success in television shows like Weeds and Man with a Plan. His dedicated fan base and continued comedic achievements speak to the enduring influence of SNL on an actor's career.

  • Joan Cusack
    40
    Shameless, Max & Ruby, Wayside
    641 votes

    During her time on SNL, Joan Cusack showcased her unique brand of humor and impeccable comedic timing. She later found great success in both film and television, earning multiple Emmy Awards and critical acclaim for her roles in projects like Working Girl and Shameless. Cusack's lasting impact in the entertainment industry highlights the importance of SNL as a platform for comedians.

  • Jim Belushi
    41
    Hey Arnold!, Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius
    864 votes

    As the younger brother of comedic legend John Belushi, Jim Belushi made a name for himself on SNL with his own memorable characters and sketches. He later found success in television and film, most notably starring in the long-running sitcom According to Jim. Belushi's achievements in the entertainment world demonstrate that SNL can provide a lasting foundation for a successful acting career.

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    • Mr. Destiny
      1Mr. Destiny
      96 Votes
    • K-9
      2K-9
      81 Votes
    • Taking Care of Business
      3Taking Care of Business
      53 Votes
  • Fred Armisen
    42
    Saturday Night Live, Portlandia, The Looney Tunes Show
    770 votes

    Fred Armisen's unique brand of comedy and penchant for eccentric characters delighted audiences during his time on SNL. After leaving the show, he co-created and starred in the critically acclaimed series Portlandia, further cementing his status as a creative force in entertainment. Armisen's impressive resume highlights the potential for SNL to propel a performer to new heights.

  • Rachel Dratch
    43
    Saturday Night Live, Game Over, The Awesomes
    558 votes

    During her tenure on SNL, Rachel Dratch became known for her incredible range of characters and spot-on impressions. The skills honed on the SNL stage served her well, leading to roles in films like Sisters and television appearances in shows such as 30 Rock. Dratch's continued success in the entertainment industry is a testament to the power of SNL.

  • Sarah Silverman
    44
    Bob's Burgers, Mr. Show with Bob and David, Greg the Bunny
    836 votes

    While her stint on SNL was short, Sarah Silverman went on to become a notable figure in comedy with her unique blend of wit and irreverence. She's since had a successful stand-up career, created her own television series, and received numerous accolades, including Emmy Awards. Silverman's achievements illustrate how SNL can be a stepping stone to a flourishing career in the entertainment industry.

  • Dennis Miller
    45
    Monday Night Football, Dennis Miller Live, Dennis Miller Live
    781 votes

    Dennis Miller's dry humor and sharp wit made him a perfect fit as an SNL cast member and Weekend Update anchor. After leaving the show, he maintained a successful career as a talk show host, political commentator, and stand-up comedian. Miller's ongoing achievements underscore the importance of SNL as a platform for showcasing and launching talent.

  • Will Forte
    46
    Saturday Night Live, The Cleveland Show, Gravity Falls
    586 votes

    Will Forte's eccentric characters and commitment to physical comedy earned him a devoted following during his time on SNL. He went on to star in films like MacGruber and create the critically acclaimed television series The Last Man on Earth. Forte's post-SNL success demonstrates the potential for growth and exploration that can be fostered by the sketch comedy show.

  • Cecily Strong
    47
    Saturday Night Live
    56 votes
    Cecily Legler Strong (born February 8, 1984) is an American actress and comedian who has been a cast member of Saturday Night Live since 2012. She was hired for SNL while doing improv at The Second City in Chicago, where she moved after graduating from CalArts. She was the co-anchor of the Weekend Update segment during her second year and returned to the cast without the anchor duties the next year. Her other roles include voice work on The Awesomes (2013–2015), supporting roles in films like Ghostbusters, The Meddler, and The Female Brain.
  • Michael McKean
    48
    Curb Your Enthusiasm, Laverne & Shirley, Better Call Saul
    51 votes
    Michael McKean, an indispensable figure in the entertainment industry, is a multifaceted artist known for his versatility. Born on October 17, 1947 in New York City, McKean grew up with a passion for performing arts which led to a fruitful career in acting and music. He received his formal education from Carnegie Mellon University, majoring in drama. His commitment to his craft was evident early on and paved the way for his steady ascent in the industry. McKean's breakthrough came when he starred as Lenny Kosnowski in the acclaimed sitcom Laverne & Shirley (1976-1983). His portrayal of this beloved character cemented his place in pop culture and garnered him widespread recognition. However, it is his role as David St. Hubbins in the mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap (1984) that stands out, where he showcased his musical prowess and comedic finesse. Not just content with acting, McKean co-wrote the film's original songs, demonstrating his remarkable range as an artist. In addition to his illustrious career on screen, McKean's work on stage cannot be overlooked. Making his Broadway debut in Hairspray in 2004, he has since performed in a variety of roles, earning him a Tony nomination for his performance in The Little Foxes (2017). His commitment to his craft, coupled with his ability to seamlessly transition between different forms of entertainment, cements his legacy as a true renaissance man within the industry.
  • Chris Elliott
    49
    Get a Life, Late Night with David Letterman, The Naked Truth
    607 votes

    Chris Elliott's unique sense of humor and penchant for offbeat characters made him a memorable presence during his time on SNL. He later found success in film and television, including roles in Everybody Loves Raymond and Schitt's Creek. Elliott's enduring influence in the entertainment world is a testament to the ongoing legacy of SNL alumni.

  • Garrett Morris
    50
    2 Broke Girls, Martin, Hunter
    610 votes

    As one of the original "Not Ready for Prime Time Players," Garrett Morris brought laughter to millions with his incredible singing voice and spot-on impressions. After leaving SNL, he continued to find success on television with roles in shows like 2 Broke Girls. Morris' contributions to comedy and SNL's history serve as a lasting reminder of the show's enduring impact on its performers.

  • Cheri Oteri
    51
    Sit Down, Shut Up, Easy to Assemble
    507 votes
    From the onset of her first appearances on "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ), Cheri Oteri fully explored her gifts for provoking laugher. Her spot-on mimicry of celebrities such as Barbara Walters and Judge Judy Sheindlin, along with a wide range of bawdy and perky originals - including cheerleader Arianna, feisty Rita Del Vecchio and talk show host Cass Van Rye - helped the petite comedy dynamo anchor the show's late 1990s resurgence, stirring viewer adulation and kick-starting her big screen career.
  • Paul Shaffer
    52
    Late Show with David Letterman, Late Night with David Letterman, Hercules
    52 votes
    The least likely hipster since Sammy Davis, Jr. was drafted into the Rat Pack, Paul Shaffer made not only a lifetime but an industry of spinning his shortcomings into bold career moves. The only son of a Thunder Bay attorney with a passion for jazz, Shaffer was trucked by his parents on vacations to Las Vegas, where he developed an early taste for dazzle and ring-a-ding-ding. A rock-n-roll worshipping teenager, Shaffer joined a boy band called the Fugitives, playing keyboards at sock hops and hockey games. Long distance radio broadcasts from the United States and chance encounters with kindred souls led Shaffer to try his hand as a freelance musician. Despite never being able to read music well, Shaffer lucked into a job as a musical director for the Toronto production of "Godspell," whose success and connections brought him to New York City in 1974. Hired for the "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ) band its first season, Shaffer forged a solid reputation for himself as an innovative musician with an incomparable personal style - traits that he parlayed into a long-term gig as the band leader for talk show host David Letterman on both of the late night comedian's programs. The recipient of multiple awards and international honors, and a celebrated composer and comic actor, Paul Shaffer carved a niche for himself in American pop culture by realizing the impossible dream of getting paid to love music.
  • Vanessa Bayer
    53
    Saturday Night Live
    48 votes
    Rolling Stone called Vanessa Bayer the secret weapon of "Saturday Night Live" (NBC 1975-). The pixie-ish comedian proved herself a hilarious and versatile actress during her tenure on the show, masterfully impersonating such high-profile celebrities as Miley Cyrus and Hillary Clinton while also creating such oddball characters as the leader of a pair of ex-porn stars (alongside Cecily Strong) making amateurish commercials for luxury products. Vanessa Bayer was born in Orange, Ohio on November 14th, 1981. She was diagnosed with leukemia at a young age and struggled with the disease throughout her childhood. Her senior class at Orange High School voted her "Most Likely to Succeed" and "Best Smile." Bayer attended the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in communications and French and graduating in 2004. While at college, she interned for "Sesame Street" (PBS 1969-) and "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" (NBC 1993-2009). Bayer then became a part of the Chicago improv scene, studying and performing improvisational comedy at ImprovOlympic (alongside future "SNL" co-worker Paul Britain), Second City, and Annoyance Theater. At Second City, she performed as part of the all Jewish cast of "Jewsical: The Musical," a parody of Jewish life that perhaps inspired Bayer's most famous "SNL" character, Jacob the Bar Mitzvah Boy. Bayer was hired at "Saturday Night Live" in September of 2010. During this time she also appeared as an incredibly boring date on "The Mindy Project" (Fox/Hulu 2012-17) and as the voice of a flight attendant in the animated children's hit "Despicable Me 2" (2013). Bayer made a bigger impression in supporting roles in the Amy Schumer hit "Trainwreck" (2015), quirky indie comedy "Carrie Pilby" (2016) and broad farce "Office Christmas Party" (2016). In May 2017, Bayer announced that she was leaving "Saturday Night Live" after seven seasons.
  • Darrell Hammond
    54
    Saturday Night Live, Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday, Celebrity Jeopardy!
    494 votes
    Gifted with an uncanny ability to mimic a broad range of personalities, Darrell Hammond cemented his legacy as one of the most versatile talents in the realm of comedy and entertainment. Born in Melbourne, Florida on October 8, 1955, Hammond discovered his passion for performance early in life, honing his craft in voice imitation and stand-up comedy. He graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Broadcasting, laying a solid foundation for his future in entertainment. His dedication, combined with his unique talent, led to his breakthrough on the prestigious stage of Saturday Night Live (SNL), where he became known for his masterful celebrity impressions. Hammond's tenure on SNL spanned 14 years from 1995 to 2009, making him one of the longest-serving cast members in the show's history. Throughout his time on the show, he impersonated more than 100 celebrities, politicians, and other public figures, including Bill Clinton, Sean Connery, and Donald Trump, earning widespread acclaim for his unparalleled accuracy and comedic timing. Beyond SNL, Hammond continued to showcase his talent in other television shows and films, such as Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Scary Movie 3, further expanding his repertoire and influence in the industry. Away from the limelight, Hammond has been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, using his platform to raise awareness and reduce stigma around these issues. He detailed his experiences in his 2011 memoir, God, If You're Not Up There, I'm F*cked, demonstrating his resilience and determination despite his personal challenges. He also returned to SNL as their announcer, proving that his connection to the show remains strong.
  • Randy Quaid
    55
    A Streetcar Named Desire, Category 7: The End of the World, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation 2
    568 votes
    Randy Quaid, an American actor admired for his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles, has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Born on 1st October 1950 in Houston, Texas, Quaid's acting journey commenced with his award-winning debut in Peter Bogdanovich's The Last Picture Show (1971). The film marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would span five decades and encompass more than 90 film and television appearances. Quaid secured his place in Hollywood through a diversity of roles, often playing characters imbued with eccentricity. His performance as a tormented Vietnam War veteran in The Last Detail (1973) earned him an Academy Award nomination. Later, he captured audiences' hearts with his portrayal of Cousin Eddie in National Lampoon's Vacation series (1983-1997), showcasing his knack for comedic timing. His other notable performances include roles in critically acclaimed films like Midnight Express (1978), Kingpin (1996), and Brokeback Mountain (2005). Despite his on-screen success, Quaid's life off-camera has been filled with legal issues and controversies. He faced multiple arrests alongside his wife Evi in the late 2000s and early 2010s, leading to their seeking refuge in Canada. Despite these adversities, Quaid's contribution to the film industry is undeniable. His enduring legacy is a testament to his talent, demonstrating how he could captivate audiences with his broad range of characters, enhancing each role with his unique style and charisma.
  • Chris Parnell
    56
    Archer, Saturday Night Live, WordGirl
    499 votes
    With his Everyman looks and highly professional announcer's voice, comedic actor Chris Parnell was often cast as a utility player on the venerable variety show "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ), until he and fellow cast member Andy Samberg took the world by storm with their hilarious rap parody, "Lazy Sunday" (2005). Up to that point, Parnell had delivered laughs in a number of recurring characters like Merv "The Perv" Watson while offering a wide array of celebrity impressions that included Eminem, George W. Bush, Tom Brokaw and Lance Bass. Of course, he naturally appeared in films with other "SNL" alum, including Tim Meadows' "Ladies Man" (2000) and Will Ferrell's "Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy" (2004). After eight years on "SNL," however, Parnell was fired by Lorne Michaels in 2006 due to budget cuts, becoming the first to ever be fired twice by the producer following a previous dismissal early in his career. He moved on to appear in a number of smaller films like "Hot Rod" (2007) and "Kabluey" (2008) while guest starring on a number of shows, most notably as a recurring player on "30 Rock" (NBC, 2006-2013). Although his highest-profile gig came as the voice of priggish secret agent Cyril Figgis in the spy comedy "Archer" (FX 2010- ), Parnell nonetheless remained a constant comedic presence on screen.
  • Janeane Garofalo
    57
    24, The Larry Sanders Show, Mr. Show with Bob and David
    563 votes
    Janeane Garofalo, a lauded talent in the realm of comedy and acting, was born on September 28, 1964 in Newton, New Jersey. Of Italian and Irish descent, her upbringing was steeped in a variety of cultural influences that would later shape her approach to comedy. The youngest of three children, Garofalo's interest in performance began at an early age, which ultimately led to her pursuing a degree in History at Providence College. However, it was during her college years that her passion for stand-up comedy truly blossomed, marking the start of a career that would span decades and touch multiple areas of entertainment. Garofalo broke into the world of comedy with biting wit and an irreverent style, quickly gaining recognition on the New York City stand-up scene. Her breakthrough came with her involvement in The Ben Stiller Show, which won an Emmy Award in 1993, solidifying her status as a burgeoning comic talent. From there, her career took flight; she landed roles in popular films like Reality Bites and The Truth About Cats & Dogs, and made regular appearances on acclaimed television shows such as The West Wing and 24. Not just a comedian and actress, Garofalo has also made a name for herself as a political activist and author, often using her platform to voice her views on societal issues. She co-authored the best-selling book Feel This Book: An Essential Guide to Self-Empowerment, Spiritual Supremacy, and Sexual Satisfaction with Ben Stiller and has been a frequent guest on news programs discussing her political perspectives. Despite her numerous roles and talents, Garofalo remains true to her comedic roots, maintaining a steady presence in the stand-up circuit while continuing to contribute to the landscape of film and television with her unique blend of humor and sincerity.
  • Gilbert Gottfried
    58
    Cyberchase, Hollywood Squares, Disney's House of Mouse
    605 votes
    Gilbert Gottfried, a distinctive voice in the world of comedy, crafted a career that spans decades and crosses mediums. Born on February 28, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York, he began his journey in the entertainment industry at the tender age of 15 by performing stand-up at open mic nights in New York City. Known for his unique vocal style and brash humor, Gottfried quickly garnered attention from audiences and industry insiders alike, paving the way for a career that would eventually see him become one of the most recognizable voices in Hollywood. In the 1980s, Gottfried's signature abrasive voice brought him considerable success in television. He became a regular on Saturday Night Live, where he honed his comedic skills further. However, it was in voice acting that Gilbert found his true calling. He lent his voice to numerous characters in animated films and TV shows, including Iago the Parrot in Disney's Aladdin and Digit in PBS's educational series Cyberchase. His unmistakable voice, coupled with his wit and timing, made him a sought-after talent in animation. Despite his successful career, Gottfried's irreverent, often shock-based humor sparked debate and criticism. His podcast, Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast, allowed him to continue entertaining audiences with his unique brand of humor while interviewing celebrities and discussing classic films. From stand-up stages in New York to the recording booths of Hollywood, Gilbert Gottfried's influence on comedy is undeniable.
  • Chris Kattan
    59
    The Middle, Bollywood Hero, Two Dreadful Children
    524 votes
    Best known for the eight years he spent as a cast member on "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975-), Chris Kattan was born in Culver City, California in 1970. Splitting his time between his mother, who was a Zen Buddhist, and his father, who was an actor and comedian, Kattan had exposure to the things that excited him and plenty of quiet time to contemplate his future. He would eventually join the sketch comedy troupe the Groundlings-where his father, Kip Kattan, had been a founding member-which led to his finally joining the ranks of "SNL" in 1996. Kattan's wild and zany characters such as Mango and Mr. Peepers were a huge hit, as was his recurring sketch with Will Ferrell in which they played two head bopping nightclub attendees. That sketch would be adapted into Kattan's first movie, "A Night at the Roxbury" (1998). He would appear in other films like "House on Haunted Hill" (1999) and "Corky Romano" (2001) during his run on "SNL," which finally ended in 2003. Kattan went on to star as a heightened version of himself on the mini-series "Bollywood Hero" (IFC, 2009), play the recurring role of Bob on "The Middle" (ABC, 2009-2018), and even competed on "Dancing with the Stars" (ABC, 2005). In 2019, Kattan published the memoir Baby, Don't Hurt Me, in which he revealed that in 2001, he broke his neck performing a stunt on "SNL," an injury that had severely impacted his life and career over the past 20 years.
  • Al Franken
    60
    Saturday Night Live, Politically Incorrect, LateLine
    624 votes
    Al Franken, born on May 21, 1951, in New York City, rose to prominence as a comedian, writer, and political commentator before transitioning into politics. A graduate of Harvard University, Franken first gained fame as one of the original writers on the acclaimed television show Saturday Night Live, where he worked from its inception in 1975 until 1980, and again from 1985 to 1995. During his tenure at SNL, Franken won multiple Emmy Awards for his contribution to television writing, further cementing his status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Franken's career took a significant turn in 2008 when he was elected as a United States Senator from Minnesota for the Democratic Party. His transition from comedy to politics was notable, as it demonstrated his ability to leverage his platform and influence to impact public policy. Throughout his tenure in the Senate, Franken was known for his progressive stance on issues such as healthcare, education, and climate change. His time in office was marked by his commitment to fighting for middle-class families, championing women's rights, and advocating for clean energy solutions. However, Franken's political career was not without controversy. In 2017, he resigned from the Senate following allegations of sexual misconduct. This event marked a significant setback in Franken's career, leading him to step out of the public eye. Despite this, Franken continues to contribute to societal discourse through various platforms, including hosting a weekly political podcast.
  • Rob Riggle
    61
    Saturday Night Live, Ugly Americans, Upright Citizens Brigade
    43 votes
    Born on April 21, 1970 in Louisville, Kentucky, Rob Riggle is a versatile performer who has excelled both in the realm of comedy and dramatic roles. After earning his Bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas and Master's degree from Webster University, he served in the United States Marine Corps as a public affairs officer, where he received numerous accolades for his service. Riggle's journey into the entertainment industry began when he moved to New York to study improvisational comedy at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. His big break came in 2004 when he joined the cast of Saturday Night Live, showcasing his comedic prowess to a national audience. In addition to his work on SNL, he has been a correspondent on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, where he earned acclaim for his satirical segments. Besides these, he has carved out a successful career in film, with notable roles in films like The Hangover, 21 Jump Street, and Step Brothers. His talents also extend to voice acting, having lent his distinctive voice to characters in animated hits like Hotel Transylvania and The Lorax. Riggle's unique blend of humor, charisma, and versatility have made him a recognizable figure in Hollywood, with a career that spans television, film, and animation. Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Riggle continues to serve his country as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, embodying a spirit of service and commitment that is as admirable as his expansive body of work.
  • Jim Breuer
    62
    Premium Blend, Larry the Cable Guy's Christmas Spectacular, Web Junk 20
    41 votes
    James E. Breuer (born June 21, 1967) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, musician, and radio host. He was a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1995 to 1998 and starred in the film Half Baked.
  • Aidy Bryant
    63
    Saturday Night Live
    46 votes
    Aidan Mackenzy Bryant (born May 7, 1987) is an American actress and comedian. She is a cast member on the late-night variety series Saturday Night Live (2012–present), beginning in season 38. For her work on the series, she has been nominated for three Primetime Emmy Awards, including two nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Her other work includes a voice role in the animated series Danger & Eggs (2017) and a starring role in the sitcom Shrill (2019–2021); for the latter, she also served as writer and executive producer and was nominated for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.
  • Laurie Metcalf
    64
    Roseanne, The Norm Show, Getting On
    45 votes
    Incredibly versatile and capable of plumbing the depths of even the most complex roles, actress Laurie Metcalf graced the stages of Chicago and New York prior to being cast on one of television's most beloved sitcoms of all time. An early member of Chicago's revered Steppenwolf Theater Company, Metcalf garnered widespread critical acclaim for her performance in the troupe's off-Broadway mounting of "Balm of Gilead" in 1984. Four years later, the actress became known to mainstream American audiences as Jackie Harris, the melancholy but well-meaning sister of Roseanne Barr's titular matriarch on the hit sitcom "Roseanne" (ABC, 1988-1997; 2018- ). The increased visibility led the accomplished actress to appear in several high-profile feature films of the time, including the crime-thriller "Internal Affairs" (1990) and director Oliver Stone's explosive docudrama "JFK" (1991). Another memorable role for Metcalf came with the voice of Andy's Mom in the Disney/Pixar animated hit film "Toy Story" (1995) and its equally popular sequels. Post-"Roseanne," she remained a frequent presence on television with memorable recurring roles on popular series like "3rd Rock from the Sun" (NBC, 1996-2001), "Desperate Housewives" (ABC, 2004-2012) and "The Big Bang Theory" (CBS, 2007- ), as well as smaller projects like Louis CK's quirky "Horace and Pete" (2016). She also co-starred in the dark sitcom "Getting On" (HBO 2013-15) and the family sitcom "The McCarthys" (CBS 2014-15), burnishing her leading-lady qualities even though neither series lasted very long. Metcalf capped her late-career renaissance with an Oscar-nominated role as the title character's mother in Greta Gerwig's "Lady Bird" (2017) and a return to the role that made her famous in a reboot of "Roseanne" that was retooled as "The Conners" (ABC 2018- ) following Roseanne Barr's firing from the series. An actress committed to illuminating the inner-life of her multilayered characters, Metcalf was one of the more esteemed supporting actresses in all mediums.
  • Laraine Newman
    65
    Saturday Night Live, The Fairly OddParents, As Told by Ginger
    499 votes
    An accomplished improvisational actor and mime, Laraine Newman helped found the legendary Groundlings comedy troupe before achieving permanent pop culture fame as one of the original Not-Ready-For-Primetime-Players on "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ) from 1975 to 1980. Newman left the series following its infamously tumultuous fifth season to pursue a film career. Though she had prominent roles in movies like "Coneheads" (1993), "The Flintstones" (1994) and "Jingle All the Way" (1996), Newman was given little room to show her true talents. She kept busy, however, with numerous supporting roles in films and on television, while becoming a much sought-after voiceover artist for big animated films like "Finding Nemo" (2003), "Cars" (2006), "WALL-E" (2007), "Up" (2009) and "Toy Story 3" (2010). Newman nonetheless managed to forge a successful career both on and off the screen decades after the glory years from studio 8H.
  • Jan Hooks
    66
    Designing Women, Frosty Returns, Not Necessarily the News
    416 votes
    Janet Vivian Hooks (April 23, 1957 – October 9, 2014) was an American actress and comedian, best known for her work on Saturday Night Live, where she was a repertory player from 1986 to 1991, and continued making cameo appearances until 1994. Her subsequent work included a regular role on the final two seasons of Designing Women, a recurring role on 3rd Rock from the Sun and a number of other roles in film and television including on Tina Fey’s NBC’s Show 30 Rock.
  • Nasim Pedrad
    67
    Saturday Night Live, Mulaney
    35 votes
    What Tina Fey was to Sarah Palin, Nasim Pedrad became to Kim Kardashian. Both actresses so effectively lampooned their targets on "Saturday Night Live" (NBC 1975- ) that they could be mistaken for them in clips. Nasim Pedrad was a relative anomaly in the entertainment world as an Iranian-American. Born in Tehran, she emigrated with her parents to America two years later and grew up as part of the large Persian community in Irvine, California. After leaving the UCLA School of Theatre, Pedrad was a member of both The Groundlings and Upright Citizens Brigade before she joined SNL in 2009. In addition to her celebrity impersonations (including Kim Kardashian, Arianna Huffington and Zooey Deschanel) and original characters on "Saturday Night Live," Pedrad performed voices in the animated films "The Lorax" (2012) and "Despicable Me 2" (2013). She also provided voices for "The Awesomes" (Hulu 2013-15) an animated superhero parody series created by Seth Meyers and Michael Shoemaker, which also starred fellow SNL actors Bobby Moynihan, Kenan Thompson, Taran Killam and Cecily Strong, as well as SNL alums Bill Hader and Rachel Dratch. While still appearing on "Saturday Night Live," Pedrad was cast in the pilot for "Mulaney," an autobiographical series created by and starring stand-up comic and former SNL writer John Mulaney. Though NBC did not pick up the pilot, Fox bought the show for the 2014-15 season.
  • Jay Pharoah
    68
    Saturday Night Live
    40 votes
    Jay Pharoah, born Jared Antonio Farrow, joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" (NBC 1975- ) as a featured player in 2010, ascending to the main cast in 2012. The lanky 6'2" actor assumed the mantle of playing President Barack Obama from the departing Fred Armisen that same year. A gifted mimic, Farrow also impersonated celebrities including Kanye West (in a recurring sketch opposite Nasim Pedrad as West's girlfriend Kim Kardashian as the hosts of the morning talk show "Waking Up with Kimye"), Ice-T, Will Smith, Tracy Morgan, Samuel L. Jackson and Dennis Rodman. His highest-profile original character was Principal Frye, the twitchy headmaster of a violent public high school whose announcements at school functions become increasingly agitated. The Virginia native's first movie appearances came with small roles in the comedies "The Cookout 2" (2011) and "Lola Versus" (2012), followed by more substantial roles in the Ice Cube/Kevin Hart buddy comedy "Ride Along" (2014) and Chris Rock's romantic comedy "Top Five" (2015). He also appeared in a voice role in the animated comedy "Sing" (2016). Throughout his career, Pharoah also worked frequently as a stand-up comedian. In August 2016, it was announced that Pharoah would not be returning to "Saturday Night Live" for a seventh season.
  • Robert Smigel
    69
    Late Night with Conan O'Brien, The Dana Carvey Show, TV Funhouse
    33 votes
    The creative force behind the animated "TV Funhouse" short films and the foul-mouthed puppet, Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, Robert Smigel may have been one of the more beloved, yet least publicly recognized comic talents of his day. Smigel's comedic career began as a part of an improvisation group co-created with Bob Odenkirk, prior to being recruited to join the ranks of the writing staff at "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ). During his time at "SNL," he was responsible for several memorable recurring sketches, and created lasting friendships with cast member Adam Sandler and fellow series writer Conan O'Brien. When O'Brien was tapped to fill the very large shoes left behind by David Letterman, Smigel followed him as head writer on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" (NBC, 1993-2009), later jumping ship to write for the ill-fated "The Dana Carvey Show" (ABC, 1995-96). It was on these programs that Smigel unleashed the inspired madness of creations like the acid-tongued Triumph and "The Ambiguously Gay Duo" segments, respectively. Even as Triumph and "TV Funhouse" became de facto cottage industries for Smigel - "Funhouse" eventually became a recurring installment on "SNL" - he also found time to clown with Sandler in several films, including "Happy Gilmore" (1996) and "I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry" (2007). Although operating primarily behind the scenes - or at the end of a hand puppet - Smigel's subversive brand of humor was at the forefront of the period's comedic wave whether audiences knew him by name or not.
  • Melissa Villaseñor
    70
    Saturday Night Live
    38 votes
    Melissa Anne Villaseñor (born October 9, 1987) is an American comedian, actress, impressionist, artist, singer, and musician. She is a cast member on Saturday Night Live, having joined in the 42nd season in 2016. Her other credits include voice work on OK K.O.! Let's Be Heroes, Adventure Time, Family Guy, and TripTank.
  • Mary Gross
    71
    Detention, The People Next Door, Billy
    31 votes
    With her pageboy haircut and distinctively flute-like voice, Mary Gross was one of the leading lights of the 1981-'85 casts of "Saturday Night Live." Plucked from Chicago's Second City by new showrunner Dick Ebersol, Gross was one of the only cast members to stay throughout Ebersol's tenure on the show; she specialized in quiet, mousy characters and oddball celebrity impersonations such as Nancy Reagan and Margaret Thatcher. After leaving SNL when creator Lorne Michaels came back in 1985, Gross moved into small character roles in comedy films and guest TV spots. Her older brother, Michael Gross, co-starred on the hit 1980s sitcom "Family Ties."
  • Joe Piscopo
    72
    Saturday Night Live, The Pink Panther, 100 Deeds for Eddie McDowd
    504 votes
    Joseph Charles John Piscopo (pronounced PIS-co-po; born June 17, 1951) is an American comedian, actor, musician, writer and a radio talk show host. He is best known for his work on Saturday Night Live in the early 1980s where he played a variety of recurring characters.
  • Christopher Guest
    73
    Family Tree, Saturday Night Live with Howard Cosell
    472 votes
    Born on February 5, 1948, in New York City, Christopher Guest embarked on a creative journey that would establish him as an influential figure in the world of entertainment. His multifaceted career spans across acting, writing, directing, and music, showcasing his multilayered talent and unique artistic vision. Of British-American ancestry, he holds a hereditary British peerage as the 5th Baron Haden-Guest, but his heart truly beats for the arts. Guest's early life was marked by the exploration of his talents, leading him to study acting at New York University. His passion for improvisation and satire later paved the way to his involvement with the National Lampoon Radio Hour, where he worked alongside comedic greats such as Bill Murray. However, it was his role as Nigel Tufnel in Rob Reiner's mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap that propelled him into the limelight. His portrayal of the befuddled rock star remains one of the most memorable characters in comedy cinema. Yet, acting was only one facet of Guest's vast repertoire. As a director and writer, he carved out a niche for himself with his unique style of mockumentaries. Films like Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, and A Mighty Wind are testament to his keen observational humor and ability to weave compelling narratives from seemingly mundane lives. Guest's approach to filmmaking, often giving actors room to improvise, allows for an organic humor that has become a touchstone of his directorial style. In addition to his work in film, Guest is also an accomplished musician and composer, further reinforcing his status as a versatile artist.
  • Harry Shearer
    74
    The Simpsons, Fernwood 2 Night, Playhouse Presents
    456 votes
    Having been the voice of 21 characters on the long-running animated sitcom "The Simpsons" (Fox, 1989- ), actor and comedian Harry Shearer was known by millions without most even recognizing his face. A child actor who segued into comedy, Shearer first emerged as an adult in Rob Reiner's beloved mockumentary, "This is Spinal Tap" (1984), while earning laughs on "Not Necessarily the News" (HBO, 1983-1990) and as a writer-performer on "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ). After later appearing in big budget movies like "Godzilla" (1998) and "The Truman Show" (1998), he tapped into his more political side to portray Watergate criminal G. Gordon Liddy in the comedy "Dick" (1999). In the following decade, Shearer joined friend Christopher Guest for the director's improvisational satires, "A Mighty Wind" (2003) and "For Your Consideration" (2006). But it was being one of the more versatile voices on "The Simpsons" that proved to be his most valuable contributions, with such noted characters as Principal Skinner, Ned Flanders, Dr. Hibbert and Mr. Burns being among fan favorites. In addition to appearing on and off the screen, Shearer hosted a popular political satire radio program while contributing to numerous publications and websites, including The Los Angeles Times and The Huffington Post. A masterful jack of all trades, Shearer made an indelible mark on entertainment in a wide variety of mediums.
  • Taran Killam
    75
    Saturday Night Live, The Jersey, Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday
    34 votes
    Though Taran Killam seemed like an overnight success when he joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" (NBC 1975- ) as a featured player in the fall of 2010, he already had an extensive resume at the time, including a stint on SNL's most successful competitor, "MADtv" (Fox 1995-2009). Born on April Fool's Day 1982 and raised in a small town near San Bernadino, CA, Killan made his film debut in 1994 in a small role in "The Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult." In 2001, at the age of 19, he joined the cast of Fox's "MADtv" for one season. While studying with improv troupe The Groundlings in Los Angeles, Killam made guest appearances on a handful of comedy and variety series, including "All That" (Nickelodeon 1994-2005) and its spinoff, the Amanda Bynes vehicle "The Amanda Show" (Nickelodeon 1999-2002). He also had a small part in the Ashton Kutcher romantic comedy "Just Married" (2003). In 2005, Killam had a key role in a fascinating TV misfire called "Nobody's Watching." Created by writer/producer Bill Lawrence, the show was conceived as a meta-sitcom, in which two TV-obsessed young men, Derrick (Killam) and Will (Paul Campbell) are followed by a reality-TV camera crew as they try to write and produce their own sitcom. A pilot was produced for The WB, but the network declined after focus groups reacted negatively. But when the show appeared on YouTube the following year, it found enough fans to get a series of web-only episodes bankrolled by NBC in 2006-07. As part of the ongoing conceit of the series, Killam and Campbell appeared in character as background actors on a number of NBC series during this period, including "Days of Our Lives" (NBC 1965- ) and Lawrence's own "Scrubs" (NBC 2001-08 / ABC 2009-2010). Killam returned to sketch comedy as a cast member on the improv show "Nick Cannon Presents: Wild 'N Out" (MTV 2005-07) and its more conventional sketch-based spinoff "Nick Cannon Presents: Short Circuitz" (MTV 2007). In 2006, Killam began an occasional recurring role on the sitcom "How I Met Your Mother" (CBS 2005-2014) as Blauman, an obnoxious co-worker of Barney (Neil Patrick Harris). While working on that show, Killam met and began dating actress Cobie Smulders, who played the leading role of Robin Scherbatsky. The couple had a daughter, Shaelyn Cado Killam, in 2009, and got married in 2012. In 2010, Killam joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" as a featured player alongside fellow new faces Vanessa Bayer, Paul Brittan and Jay Pharoah. Killam's boyish charisma made him an immediate standout among the new cast members. He proved adept at celebrity impersonations (including a dead-on skewering of Michael Cera's twee mannerisms in co-star Abby Elliott's recurring sketch "Gettin' Quirky With Zooey Deschanel"), and his original material had an oddball charm of its own. For example, his nearly wordless recurring sketch "Les Jeunes de Paris" consisted of cast members dancing madly to French pop songs on a set decorated like a nouvelle vague film of the early 1960s. Killam was promoted to the show's main cast at the start of the 38th season in 2012. The following year, Killam got his first major film role, as a disgruntled DEA agent in the Sandra Bullock/Melissa McCarthy buddy comedy "The Heat" (2013). Between seasons of SNL, Killam appeared in small roles in films ranging from the comedy sequel "Grown Ups 2" (2013) and "Teenage Mutant Ninaja Turtles" (2014) to Oscar-winner "12 Years a Slave" (2013). He also appeared as himself in a cameo in "Ted 2" (2015) and starred in the educational animated series "Nature Cat" (PBS Kids 2015- ) in the title role. In August 2016, it was announced that Killam would not be returning to "Saturday Night Live" for his seventh season, in part because he was busy directing and co-starring in the action comedy "Why We're Killing Gunther" (2017) with Arnold Schwarzenegger.
  • Don Novello
    76
    SCTV Network 90, Histeria!
    498 votes
    Known to fans of classic "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ) as Father Guido Sarducci, comedian Don Novello played that irreverent Catholic priest on and off in different mediums for the better part of four decades, cleverly commenting on all manner of political and religious events from various eras. He also proved to be a wicked satirist in the form of Lazlo Toth, the fictitious letter writer eager to offer his two cents on everything politicians and other American powerbrokers were doing and how he felt they could be doing it better. While not all of Novello's projects came to fruition - most notably, "Noble Rot," a movie he was co-writing with his "SNL" co-star John Belushi right before the troubled comedian's fatal drug overdose in 1982 - he orchestrated some unique endeavors, including a high school year book featuring nothing but sheep and a complex children's musical that took months to plan, involved hundreds of children, and was only performed once. While Guido Sarducci remained Novello's best known character, he also landed occasional work as an actor, including parts in several films by director Francis Ford Coppola, and displayed considerable flair as a humorist with a unique sensibility.
  • Horatio Sanz
    77
    Saturday Night Live, Fillmore!, Celebrity Jeopardy!
    48 votes
    Horacio Sanz (born June 4, 1969), better known by his stage name Horatio Sanz, is a Chilean-born American actor and comedian. He was a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1998–2006.
  • Kyle Mooney
    78
    Saturday Night Live, Hello Ladies
    40 votes
    Mop-topped sketch comedian Kyle Mooney brought his cringe-worthy comedy from the corners of YouTube to "Saturday Night Live" (NBC 1975-) after joining the cast in 2013. Mooney and his fellow comedy cohorts in the sketch group Good Neighbor developed a devoted following online including celebrity fans Louis C.K., Adam McKay of Funny or Die and director Steven Spielberg. After catching the attention of producer Lorne Michaels, Mooney joined the show as a featured player, tasked with taking up the mantle of digital shorts from his predecessor Andy Samberg and his group The Lonely Island.
  • Bobby Moynihan
    79
    Saturday Night Live, Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday, Chozen
    35 votes
    When he was initially cast on "Saturday Night Live" (NBC 1975- ), Bobby Moynihan was immediately compared to Chris Farley and John Belushi, two other heavy-set cast members. But while the 5'8, 200+ lb. Moynihan was a gifted physical comedian, his size was rarely a major part of fan-favorite characters like the belligerent yet incoherent Drunk Uncle and Riblet, the aimless high school pal of Weekend Update anchor Michael Che. Moynihan's sheer ebullience was a bigger asset. Bobby Moynihan was born in Eastchester, NY on January 31, 1978 and went to Eastchester High School and the University of Connecticut, where he got his degree in theatre. He started acting professionally in 2002, but didn't find immediate success. He did become part of New York's improv stalwarts the Upright Citizens Brigade, which helped him land on SNL in 2008. He immediately integrated himself into the cast as a journeyman player in various sketches before introducing his own characters, such as the Weekend Update regulars Drunk Uncle and "second-hand news" correspondent Anthony Crispino, who delivered overheard and misunderstood news stories to the Update anchors. His work on SNL soon started landing him roles in other projects, including guest spots on "Portlandia" (IFC 2011- ), "Happy Endings" (ABC 2011-13), which co-starred his former SNL co-star Casey Wilson, and "Girls" (HBO 2012- ). His film work included supporting roles in the Pixar sequel "Monsters University" (2013), the Adam Sandler vehicle "Grown-Ups 2" (2013) and the Vince Vaughn comedy "Delivery Man" (2013). In early 2014, Moynihan took his first starring role on "Chozen" (FX 2014), an animated comedy by the creators of "Archer" (FX 2009- ) in which he played the title character, a gay, white rapper trying to restart his career after leaving prison. After nine seasons on "Saturday Night Live," Moynihan left in 2017 to star in his own prime-time sitcom, "Me, Myself & I" (CBS 2017- ).
  • Beck Bennett
    80
    Saturday Night Live
    37 votes
    Beck Bennett took an unusual route to TV fame. It was a series of much-loved advertisements for a cell phone company that first brought him to the attention of the American public. However it wasn't an overnight success there were years of hard work for the comic actor before he landed that overnight success. Even at a young age Bennett wanted to be an actor, taking on the challenging role of Jean Valjean in a production of "Les Miserables" at New Trier High School in Winnetka, IL while at the same time taking improvisational classes at the legendary Second City in nearby Chicago. Heading to the University of Southern California where he enrolled in the BFA Acting program, Bennett joined improv/sketch comedy group Commodus Interruptus with Kyle Mooney and Nick Rutherford; they would later be renamed Good Neighbor with the addition of fourth member Dave McCary.
  • Alex Moffat
    81
    Saturday Night Live
    34 votes
    Alex Moffat (born March 25, 1982) is an American actor, comedian, and cast member on Saturday Night Live. Moffat started his comedy career as a Chicago-based improviser and featured performer at The Second City, ImprovOlympic, Annoyance Theatre and Zanies Comedy Club. In 2015, Moffat co-starred alongside John Ashton in the indie-drama Uncle John, and in 2016, he joined the cast of Saturday Night Live. Moffat made his debut on Saturday Night Live on the October 1, 2016 episode hosted by Margot Robbie, alongside Mikey Day and Melissa Villaseñor. Moffat became a repertory cast member in 2018, beginning with Season 44.
  • Mark McKinney
    82
    The Kids in the Hall, Slings & Arrows, Wanda at Large
    38 votes
    The slim, boyishly cute member of the zany Canadian comedy troupe The Kids in the Hall, Mark McKinney went on to write and perform on NBC's "Saturday Night Live" (from 1995-97) and to play numerous roles in "The Kids in the Hall BRAIN CANDY" (1996).
  • Tim Robinson
    83
    Saturday Night Live
    35 votes
    Tim Robinson (born May 23, 1981) is an American comedian, actor, writer, and producer. He is best known for co-creating, co-writing, and starring in the Comedy Central series Detroiters (2017–2018) and the Netflix series I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson (2019–present), and for his work as a writer and performer on Saturday Night Live (2012–2014).
  • Nancy Carell
    84
    The Daily Show, Angie Tribeca, The Goode Family
    26 votes
    Nancy Ellen Carell (; née Walls; born July 19, 1966) is an American actress, comedian and writer best known for her work on Saturday Night Live, The Daily Show and The Office. In 2016, she co-created the TBS comedy series Angie Tribeca with her husband, Steve Carell.
  • Sasheer Zamata
    85
    Saturday Night Live, Hey Girl
    26 votes
    Sasheer Zamata Moore (born May 6, 1986) is an American actress and comedienne known for her work as a cast membe on Saturday Night Live from 2014 to 2017 as well as her leading roles in the TV series Woke (2020-present) and Home Economics (2021-present). She also has served as a celebrity ambassador for the American Civil Liberties Union.
  • Casey Wilson
    86
    Happy Endings, Marry Me, Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday
    30 votes
    Actress-comedian-writer Casey Wilson rightfully earned her reputation as an up-and-coming talent with her screenwriting credits, work on stage, and as the star of a popular television sitcom. Emerging from the ranks of the acclaimed Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, Wilson's comedic chops soon garnered the attention of executive producer Lorne Michaels, who signed her on to the cast of "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ) in 2008. Although she impressed with a combination of gut-busting impersonations and original characters, her time on "SNL" was short-lived. Pushing forward on a number of fronts, Wilson co-wrote the wedding comedy "Bride Wars" (2009), in addition to contributing stories to the humor anthology book Worst Laid Plans. Small appearances in the feature films "Julie & Julia" (2009) and "Killers" (2010) paved the way for the biggest role of her career as one of the stars of the popular sitcom "Happy Endings," (ABC, 2011-13). As the unlucky-in-love, yet always upbeat Penny, Wilson received the lion's share of accolades heaped upon the show's promising young ensemble cast. Ambitious, multi-talented and fearless as a performer, Wilson was sure to enjoy a lengthy career as both a writer and performer.
  • Rich Hall
    87
    QI, Fridays, Not Necessarily the News
    27 votes
    Richard Travis Hall (born June 10, 1954) is an American comedian, writer, and musician, first coming to prominence as a sketch comedian in the 1980s. He wrote and performed for a range of American networks, in series such as Fridays, Not Necessarily the News (popularising the "sniglet" neologism), and Saturday Night Live. After winning a Perrier Comedy Award in 2000, using the character of Tennesseean country musician Otis Lee Crenshaw, Hall became popular in the United Kingdom, regularly appearing on QI and similar panel shows. He has created and starred in several series for the BBC, including comedies with Mike Wilmot, and documentaries often concerning cinema of the United States. Hall has also maintained a successful stand-up comedy career, as both Crenshaw and himself.
  • Danitra Vance
    88
    Danitra Vance (July 13, 1954 – August 21, 1994) was an American comedian and actress best known as a cast member on the NBC sketch show Saturday Night Live (SNL) during its eleventh season and for work in feature films like Sticky Fingers (1988), Limit Up (1990) and Jumpin' at the Boneyard (1992). She performed for The Second City, was an "Off-Broadway favorite", and was the first black woman of the primary SNL cast and tied for the first LGBT member, though she was not openly out. Her comedy and theater work featured themes of social issues, including that of being consistently stereotyped during casting. During her career, she received an Obie Award and an NAACP Image Award. In 1989, Vance was diagnosed with breast cancer. She performed several works through remission and recurrence until her death in 1994. Before her death, she requested her family host her services at an amusement park.
  • Pamela Stephenson
    89
    Not The Nine O'Clock News, Not the Nine O'Clock News, Lost Empires
    28 votes
    Pamela Helen Stephenson, Lady Connolly (born 4 December 1949), is a New Zealand-born psychologist, writer, and performer who is now a resident in both the United Kingdom and the United States. She is best known for her work as an actress and comedian during the 1980s. She has written several books, which include a biography of her husband Sir Billy Connolly, and presented a psychology-based interview show called Shrink Rap on British and Australian television.
  • Chris Redd
    90
    34 votes
    Christopher Jerell Redd (born March 25, 1985) is an American comedian and actor who has been a cast member of Saturday Night Live since 2017. He won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics in 2018 for co-writing the SNL song "Come Back Barack". He is also known for his roles in Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping (2016), Disjointed (2017–2018), and Kenan (2021–present).
  • Laura Kightlinger
    91
    Lucky Louie, Tenacious D, The Minor Accomplishments of Jackie Woodman
    24 votes
    Laura Kightlinger is an American actress, comedian and writer. She was a writer and consulting producer on Will & Grace, while also occasionally appearing on the show as the character Nurse Sheila. Kightlinger also played the title role in the TV show The Minor Accomplishments of Jackie Woodman, which she created, wrote and executive produced.
  • Jerry Minor
    92
    The Daily Show, Mr. Show with Bob and David, Lucky Louie
    24 votes
    Jerry Charles Minor Jr. (born October 4, 1969) is an American actor, comedian and writer known for his comedic roles in numerous television programs such as Mr. Show, Saturday Night Live, Trigger Happy TV, Delocated, Brickleberry, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Crossballs, The Hotwives of Orlando, Carpoolers, Community, and Lucky Louie.
  • Terry Sweeney
    93
    Hype
    24 votes
    Terry Sweeney is an American artist, actor, and writer. He was a writer and cast member of Saturday Night Live in the 1980s, co-wrote the 1989 film Shag, and has written for the television series MADtv, Hype, and Tripping the Rift.
  • Emily Prager
    94
    24 votes
    Emily Prager is an American author and journalist. Prager grew up in Texas, Taiwan, and Greenwich Village, New York City. She is a graduate of the Brearley School, Barnard College and has a master's degree in Applied Linguistics.
  • George Coe
    95
    Archer, Max Headroom, Camp Candy
    24 votes
    George Coe was an American film and TV actor who appeared in several dozen roles over the course of a career spanning six decades. Having always had a desire to act, Coe received his formal acting training from Hofstra University and the American Academy of Dramatic Art. He started appearing in plays on Broadway in the late 1950s, before making the jump to film and TV in the early 1960s. In 1968, Coe was nominated for directing his comedic short, "De Düva: The Dove," which parodied the films of the iconic Swedish director, Ingmar Bergman. By the early 1970s, however, Coe put his budding directing career aside and turned to acting full-time. IN 1975 he became a part of the original cast of "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ), but was quickly cut out of the show after appearing in the first three episodes. Undeterred, Coe continued landing supporting roles in various notable films over the next two decades, including "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979), "Blind Date" (1987), and "The Mighty Ducks" (1992). By the dawn of the new millennium, Coe was nabbing parts on shows like "The West Wing" (NBC, 1999-2006), "Bones" (Fox, 2005- ), and "The King of Queens" (CBS, 1999-2007). Then in 2009, the 80-year-old Coe started voicing the role of Woodhouse, devoted butler to selfish superspy Sterling Archer, on the FX animated series "Archer" (FX, 2009- ). Over the next few years, Coe lent his voice to the show while still continuing to nab small parts in movies and on TV, including another voice role in the horror-comedy, "13 Sins" (2014). George Coe died following a long illness on July 18, 2015. He was 86 years old.
  • Michaela Watkins
    96
    Trophy Wife, Benched
    25 votes
    Although many comedy stars were launched from "Saturday Night Live," Michaela Watkins is a rare example of an actor and comedian whose best work came after she was fired from her short tenure on the show. She was let go after only a season on SNL, and then went on to work steadily in both film and television before landing a co-starring role on the sitcom "Trophy Wife." Michaela Watkins was born in Syracuse, NY and raised in the tony Boston suburb of Wellesley, MA. After graduating from Boston University, Watkins worked in regional theater, primarily in the Pacific Northwest, before moving to Los Angeles. Her first film role came in the indie comedy-drama "Inconceivable" (1998), an ensemble work about couples having fertility issues. While in Los Angeles, Watkins began studying with the storied improv comedy troupe The Groundlings and worked regularly in local theater. During this era, she made occasional appearances in guest roles on TV series ranging from the procedural drama "Without A Trace" (CBS 2002-09) to the raucous family sitcom "Malcolm in the Middle" (Fox 2000-06). In 2008, she made her first tentative step into regular TV work, shooting a pilot for an American adaptation of the popular British sketch comedy series "Man Stroke Woman" (BBC Three 2005-07), but the series was not picked up. Later that year, she was hired for the 34th season of "Saturday Night Live" (NBC 1975- ) as a new addition to the show's junior Featured Players rotation, alongside third-generation comedian Abby Elliott. Watkins primarily worked as an impressionist on "Saturday Night Live," with her most popular recurring impersonation being a perpetually embarrassed Hoda Kotb, who became increasingly uncomfortable with the camera-hogging antics of her "Today" (NBC 1952- ) costar Kathie Lee Gifford (Kristen Wiig). Watkins also had a recurring character on the show's "Weekend Update" segment: barely verbal blogger Angie Tempura, whose mumbled takedowns of celebrities she deemed uncool were punctuated by her slurred catchphrase "B*tch, please." However, only weeks prior to the premiere of the show's 2009-10 season, it was announced that Watkins and her fellow featured player Casey Wilson were fired from "Saturday Night Live." After her firing, Watkins said that executive producer Lorne Michaels' explanation to her was that he felt her talents were better suited to television sitcoms.Watkins did move directly from "Saturday Night Live" to a recurring role on the hit sitcom "The New Adventures of Old Christine" (CBS 2006-2010) as Lucy, the neurotic patient turned girlfriend of therapist Matthew Kimble (Hamish Linklater), which she followed with another recurring role, on the cult favorite "Enlightened" (HBO 2011-13). But she focused primarily on strengthening her sketch comedy chops, becoming a key member of the main company of The Groundlings upon her return to Los Angeles. Her first major movie role came in the hit romantic comedy "The Back-Up Plan" (2010), in which she played the sardonic friend of main character Zoe (Jennifer Lopez). This was followed by a memorable role in the ensemble comedy "Wanderlust" (2012) starring Paul Rudd and Jennifer Aniston and written and directed by comedy veteran David Wain. In 2013, she took the sitcom path Michaels suggested with a co-starring role on "Trophy Wife" (ABC 2013-14) as Jackie, the second of two ex-wives involved in the complicated new marriage of Peter (Bradley Whitford) and Kate (Malin Akerman).
  • Abby Elliott
    97
    Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday
    21 votes
    Abby Elliott was born with a bit of a head start in the comedy world, as the daughter of Chris Elliott and granddaughter of Bob Elliott, both respected comedians and writers themselves. Still, she forged her own path, even if it wound up going to a few places familiar to her relatives. After growing up in Connecticut, Elliott went to college in New York City for one semester before she dropped out. In 2006, she studied comedy with the acclaimed improv troupe The Groundlings and performed in sketch comedy groups at the Los Angeles' Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. She also worked with her father on a few TV show pilots, though none of them panned out. What did pan out were a few voice-acting gigs on shows such as "King of the Hill" (Fox 1997-2010). Cutting her teeth in the world of comedy, Elliott eventually joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" (NBC 1975- ) in 2008, making her the third generation of her family to appear on the series. On SNL, Abby offered a number of memorable celebrity impressions, such as Angelina Jolie, Rachel Maddow, and Zooey Deschanel. While a cast member on SNL, Elliott appeared in a few films, including a bit role in the Natalie Portman/Ashton Kutcher comedy "No Strings Attached" (2011) and a leading role in the improv comedy "High Road" (2011). In 2012, she left "Saturday Night Live" and began appearing in a few television shows, including a five-episode run during the final episodes of "How I Met Your Mother" (CBS 2005-2014). Elliott also appeared in the Michael Bay reboot of "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" (2014) as April O'Neil's roommate and in the indie comedy "Sex Ed" (2014). Elliott returned to series TV as the co-star of "Odd Mom Out" (Bravo 2015- ), a sitcom set on New York's fashionable Upper East Side based on the bestseller Momzillas, written by series star Jill Kargman, and in a supporting role on children's animated series "Star vs. the Forces of Evil" (Disney XD 2015- ).
  • Morwenna Banks
    98
    Peppa Pig, Saxondale, Monkey Dust
    21 votes
    Tamsin Morwenna Banks (born 20 September 1961) is a British comedy actress, writer and producer known for her roles as Mummy Pig, Madame Gazelle and Dr Hamster in the children's series Peppa Pig.
  • Michael O'Donoghue
    99

    Michael O'Donoghue

    26 votes
  • Melanie Hutsell
    100
    Melanie Kay Hutsell (born August 2, 1968) is an American comedic actress and writer best known for her work as a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1991 to 1993.
  • Aristotle Athari
    101
    Aristotle Athari (born July 28, 1991) is an American comedian, actor, and filmmaker of Iranian descent. In 2021, Athari joined the cast of Saturday Night Live for its forty-seventh season.
  • Tim Kazurinsky
    102
    Big City Comedy
    26 votes
    Tim Kazurinsky was an accomplished actor who led an impressive career, primarily on the big screen. Kazurinsky started his acting career landing roles in such films as the action flick "Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment" (1985) with Steve Guttenberg, the comedy "Continental Divide" (1981) with John Belushi and "Neighbors" (1981) with John Belushi. He was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for "Saturday Night Live" in 1984. This recognition propelled him to pursue a role in the action picture "Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment" (1985) with Steve Guttenberg. He continued to act in productions like "Police Academy 3: Back in Training" (1986), the action film "Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol" (1987) with Steve Guttenberg and "Hot to Trot" (1988). Film continued to be his passion as he played roles in "Plump Fiction" (1998) with Julie Brown, "Poor White Trash" (2000) with Sean Young and the dramedy "Roll Bounce" (2005) with Bow Wow. He also was featured in the TV movie "The Cherokee Kid" (HBO, 1996-97). Kazurinsky most recently acted in the Sam Witwer drama "The Return of Joe Rich" (2011).
  • Noël Wells
    103
    Saturday Night Live
    22 votes
    Born in San Antonio, TX, Noël Wells got her first taste of speaking in public as a member of the speech and debating teams at Memorial High School in Victoria. Going on to study at University of Texas at Austin where she joined vaudeville sketch theatre Esther's Follies before graduating in 2010 with degrees in Radio-TV-Film and Plan II Honors (a multidisciplinary Bachelor of Arts program).
  • Finesse Mitchell
    104
    Saturday Night Live, A.N.T. Farm
    27 votes
    Best known for his original character of "Starkeisha," an outspoken African-American woman, comic performer Finesse Mitchell made his own unique impact on NBC's long-running comedy staple, "Saturday Night Live" (1975- ).
  • Dean Edwards
    105
    Celebrity Jeopardy!, Take On The Takeaway, 100 Greatest One Hit Wonders of the 80s
    23 votes
    Dean Edwards (born July 30, 1970) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, singer, writer, musician and voice artist. His work as a voice actor includes Scottie Pippen and Spike Lee in Celebrity Deathmatch, a robot in Robotomy, and Donkey in Scared Shrekless after Eddie Murphy refused to reprise the role (Edwards had impersonated Murphy on stage). He also appeared in Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Halftime Special as Savion Glover and Don Cheadle, in Tony N' Tina's Wedding as Father Mark, and The Sopranos. Edwards has a YouTube channel, "deanedwardscomedy". He was also the host of the critically acclaimed TV show "Vidiots" on TVone.
  • Matthew Laurance
    106
    Beverly Hills, 90210, Duet
    23 votes
    Matthew Laurance is an actor.
  • Christine Ebersole
    107
    Bobby's World, The Hogan Family, Ryan's Hope
    23 votes
    One of the brightest lights in American musical theater for over a decade, actress and singer Christine Ebersole was a Tony Award-winning performer who wowed critics and audiences in productions like "Dinner At Eight," "42nd Street," and "Grey Gardens," for which she played two challenging roles. Ebersole also enjoyed a career in film and television, most notably as a Not-Ready-for-Prime-Time Player on "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ) during the troubled 1981-82 season.
  • Charles Rocket
    108
    Normal, Ohio, Tequila and Bonetti
    23 votes
    Handsome, lanky comic character player who first gained notoriety for saying the f-word on the air while employed by "Saturday Night Live." Rocket was subsequently fired from the long-running sketch series, and went on to appear in a number of features, TV-movies, specials and several series--he was especially effective as Richard Addison, the brother of Bruce Willis's p.i. on the series "Moonlighting," in a recurring roles on the inventive series "Max Headroom," the inspirational "Touched By an Angel" and as a regular on the legal drama "The Home Court" (1995-1996) and the John Goodman sitcom "Normal, Ohio" (2000). Usually cast as slimy white-collar criminals or bumbling ne'er-do-wells, Rocket has appeared in the features "Earth Girls Are Easy" (1989), as a sleazy doctor who wants to perform tests on friendly aliens, "Dances With Wolves" (1990), as a kindly Calvary officer, "Short Cuts" (1993), as another boyfriend of Frances McDormand, and the comedy blockbuster "Dumb and Dumber" (1994), as the idiotic villain. After a lengthy career that included film, television, cartoons and even video games, Rocket was found dead of an apparent suicide at age 56 near his Canterbury, Connecticut home on Oct. 7, 2005.
  • Tom Schiller
    109

    Tom Schiller

    23 votes
    Tom Schiller is an American writer best known for his eleven-year stint writing and directing short films for Saturday Night Live (following the show's original short film makers Albert Brooks and Gary Weis). His films, often featuring members of the original SNL cast, aired on the program in a segment titled, "Schiller's Reel." He is the son of TV comedy writer/producer Bob Schiller.
  • Brad Hall
    110
    Brooklyn Bridge, The Single Guy, Watching Ellie
    24 votes
    Brad Hall appeared as a regular on "Saturday Night Live" from 1982-84, but instead of the feature film career that other former cast members attempted, Hall became a leading producer and writer of sitcoms, working on "Brooklyn Bridge" and his own "The Single Guy" as well as co-writing the screenplay for "Bye, Bye Love" with Gary David Goldberg. Born and raised in Santa Barbara, CA, Hall went to Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, famed for its theatre programming, and while in Chicago was one of the founding members of the Practical Theatre Company. Hall also appeared in the Goodman Theatre's productions of "Candide" and "Our Town" while based in Chicago. He moved on to New York where he appeared in David Mamet's "Prairie du Chien" at Lincoln Center before joining "Saturday Night Live." After "SNL" he moved to Hollywood, where he guest starred in episodes of "9 to 5" and "Mad Avenue." He also worked in small roles in feature films such as "Troll" (1986), and "Worth Winning" (1989) before his first substantial feature film role as Marty Callahan, Nancy Allen's endearing love interest in "Limit Up" (1989). But while awaiting acting roles, Hall's work writing revues for the Practical Theatre Company began to pay off. He was hired to "doctor" several feature films, punching up the comedy lines, and wrote an episode of "Frasier." He was hired as writer and story editor on the thoughtful Robert Urich comedy "American Dreamer" (NBC, 1990-91), which was executive produced by Goldberg and directed by Sam Weisman. Meshing with the duo, Hall collaborated with Goldberg on the pilot of "Brooklyn Bridge" (CBS, 1991-93), then went on to write numerous episodes, be supervising producer of the series, and also directed an episode. He collaborated with Goldberg on the script for "Bye, Bye Love," a 1995 feature film about divorced men and their angst directed by Weisman and in which Hall had a small role. He then returned to TV as executive producer of "The Single Guy," the NBC series starring Jonathan Silverman which premiered in the autumn of 1995. Hall is married to Julia Louis-Dreyfuss, his former cast mate on "Saturday Night Live" better known for her work on "Seinfeld."
  • Brooks Wheelan
    111
    Saturday Night Live
    24 votes
    Fresh-faced comedian Brooks Wheelan caught his big break as part of the "Saturday Night Live" (NBC 1975- ) hiring blitz to round out its 39th season. With his Midwestern boy next-door appeal, the stand-up comedian joined the cast with barely any acting credits to his name. Brooks Wheelan was born on August 21, 1986 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Wheelan grew up an athletic and studious kid in Manchester, Iowa, earning honor roll and wrestling titles simultaneously. A comedy fan from an early age, Wheelan grew up on SNL and told his parents of his ambition to join the cast when he was in elementary school. Despite his early motivations, Wheelan ended up going into the sciences instead and earned a degree in biomedical engineering from the University of Iowa in 2009. While he performed stand-up around the Midwest during his late teens and studied at Second City Chicago during his summer breaks from college, it was his engineering degree that eventually brought him out to Los Angeles. Wheelan worked with heart valves and eyeballs in a research lab by day while performing standup comedy at night. While he worked the club circuit of L.A., he also brushed up on his improv and sketch comedy skills by performing at the UCB Theatre, the Hollywood Improv Comedy Club and writing video shorts with his friends for YouTube and Funny or Die. While many of his peers sought out recognition online, Wheelan continuously worked on his standup and was invited to perform at the New York Comedy Festival as a part of Comedy Central's "Top 10 Comics to Watch in 2012." Wheelan made his television debut appearing on comedian Adam Devine's show "Adam Devine's House Party" (Comedy Central 2013-). Wheelan followed that up with a set at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal. It was there that Wheelan caught the eye of SNL's Lorne Michaels, who invited Wheelan to audition for the show. In September of that 2013, he was announced as the last featured player to join the show that season. His most notable early appearance came during the Jimmy Fallon-hosted Christmas episode, when he played himself on a game of Celebrity Family Feud, insisting that he was a cast member on "Saturday Night Live" despite the fact that no one else on stage had ever heard of him.
  • Alan Zweibel
    112
    Curb Your Enthusiasm, It's Garry Shandling's Show
    24 votes
    As a comedy writer, producer, playwright and even novelist, Alan Zweibel was a prolific comedic voice whose life and career were inexorably linked to the first five seasons of "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ). One of the original writers hired by producer Lorne Michaels, Zweibel had his hand in creating and writing for some of the show's most famous characters and bits, most notably John Belushi's Samurai and Gilda Radner's Emily Litella and frizzy-haired Roseanne Roseannadanna. In fact, he developed a strong professional and personal bond with Radner that lasted until her untimely death from cancer in 1989. Meanwhile, he made his feature writing debut with the concert film "Gilda Live" (1980) and later helped create and write "It's Garry Shandling's Show" (Showtime, Fox, 1986-1990) alongside the show's titular star. After writing a big screen remake of "Dragnet" (1987), Zweibel wrote the best-selling memoir, Bunny, Bunny: Gilda Radner - A Sort of Love Story (1994), which detailed his platonic relationship with Radner, while branching further out into Broadway and writing for a number of variety specials, cementing his legacy as one of the comedy world's more pioneering writers.
  • Mike O-Brien
    113

    Mike O-Brien

    24 votes
    Mike O-Brien is an actor.
  • Jim Downey
    114
    Saturday Night Live
    24 votes
    James Woodward Downey (born 1952) is an American comedy writer and occasional actor. Downey has written for over 30 seasons of Saturday Night Live.
  • Gail Matthius
    115
    Tiny Toon Adventures, Snorks, Bobby's World
    24 votes
    Gail Matthius is an actress who appeared in "Steven Spielberg Presents Pinky & The Brain," "Airplane II: the Sequel," and "Twas the Night Before Bumpy."
  • Jon Rudnitsky
    116

    Jon Rudnitsky

    18 votes
  • Beth Cahill
    117
    18 votes
    Beth Cahill (born September 15, 1963) is an American television actress who is best known for having been a featured cast member on Saturday Night Live during the 1991–92 season.
  • Peter Aykroyd
    118
    Psi Factor: Chronicles of the Paranormal
    25 votes
    Peter Jonathan Aykroyd (November 19, 1955 – c. November 20, 2021) was a Former Canadian actor, comedian, SNL Cast member and writer.
  • Dan Vitale
    119
    19 votes
    Dan Vitale is an actor.
  • Luke Null
    120

    Luke Null

    19 votes