Best SNL Characters of All Time

Last Updated on 20 February 2025

Saturday Night Live (SNL) is an American late-night live sketch comedy variety show that has been running since 1975.

“Each episode is hosted by a celebrity guest, who usually delivers the opening monologue and performs in sketches with the cast, with featured performances by a musical guest.” “Many SNL cast members have found national stardom while appearing on the show, and achieved success in film and television, both in front of and behind the camera. Others associated with the show, such as writers, have gone on to successful careers creating, writing, and starring in television and film.” – Wikipedia

I found 18 different lists of the “best SNL characters”. Then I averaged them in Excel to create this master ranked list. See my Methodology page for the research process that was used, including links to all 18 lists that were averaged. Below is a viewing checklist you may print out, followed by the full ranked list. Links all go to the SNL Archives website where there is more information available.

Best SNL Characters – Viewing Checklist Download