The Best SNL Seasons: A Comedy Fan's Guide

"Saturday Night Live (SNL)" has always been one of those shows that fans watch in awe. It's been around for ages, so the series has experienced lots of changes!

The Best Of The Best SNL Seasons

Fans are always talking about those memorable characters who appeared. These characters launched the careers of so many of Hollywood’s greatest! SNL is legendary. It's a super diverse show, that's entertaining audiences across the nation! While you might only remember the good times, SNL has its ups and downs just like any other show. That doesn’t take away from its popularity as a television series that always seems to bring the most incredible laughs!

It was started back in 1975, with over 50 seasons of episodes to look forward to.

Most Memorable Moments Of SNL

SNL promo image of Paul Rudd and One Direction Image

For anyone who has caught the most popular sketches! Many of them, even have their own spinoffs.

Wayne's World was an iconic sketch
Night at the Roxbury has a major cult following
Fans loved the Coneheads
There's always a great time for the Blues Brothers

With this kind of success, these incredible, talented performers are bound to keep making history!

The Best of The Best:

Since this show features so many different talents, the most important factor to consider for each SNL season are the stars that appear in it! These individuals set the stage.

If you want a guide to some of the best of the best seasons, it's all coming up right now! We’re diving in deep and exploring which seasons have truly delivered some memorable comedy and stand out performances.

Season 22

Wayne and Garth raise their arms in the air from the Wayne's World sketch on SNL Image

When it comes to season 22! Fans are in for a real treat as a super popular cast! And there's even more excitement! A group of some of the show’s most notable stars returned for big guest appearances.

That is truly something to celebrate, as these talented stars have already established a place in Hollywood, and were bound to make everyone's season unforgettable!

There was Chevy Chase and Martin Short
Chris Rock was also on the scene
Robert Downey Jr was in an epic season!
Mike Myers returned to his roots as an SNL star!
Of course, it wouldn't be season 22 without Dana Carvey!

That's the magic of SNL. As you see these stars return, we can see that the biggest of them all.

But we all get the true wonder with a recurring sketch. This one called "Celebrity Jeopardy." What really brings together all those stars and gives fans an unforgettable performance is, the true sense that it's one of those iconic sketches you just have to see.

Season 10

Seth Myers delivers a line on the Weekend Update Sketch from SNL Image

You can really feel the momentum of these shows. When it comes to change, SNL gets everyone paying attention. This can be good and bad. If you see major changes that's when some of those shifts in production are the most difficult.

Season 6. That was a true turning point, which included the exit of a great cast that had such a big, well known influence on the world, which is why season 10 had such a lot to do to keep everyone watching!

There's so much tension when you think of the new crew, but SNL got a big push forward when they added incredible stars, bringing so much excitement with this kind of incredible talent to the screen.

This is just a peek, but this cast is impressive.

Eddie Murphy
Joe Piscopo

This dynamic group is always interesting. With this particular season they took the daring approach and brought in some established stars from the world of comedy. It looks like some really fun elements of these show are being set into motion!

Billy Crystal
Christopher Guest
Martin Short

You really have some of the greatest in this particular season, though. This group was just too talented, to ever make it for the next year.

Season 26

When you think of election years. It looks like SNL comes to the forefront with super clever jokes.

In season 26, SNL was in rare form with this dynamic time! Fans loved how funny it was and that is no surprise considering it had some real moments from one of America's greatest elections.

If you remember that era, it really showed those tensions, that were captured so well!

George W. Bush
Al Gore

There are so many things we can appreciate from this special show. This is a show where a couple of incredible SNL stars, Will Ferrell and Darrell Hammond brought to life these iconic presidents, so flawlessly, they really hit all the best moments.

Will Ferrell, the talented, comedic force who appeared on "SNL" had a ton of cool scenes, that had everyone in stitches.

Will Ferrell along with Rachel Dratch in "Lovers," and these two comedic powerhouses never fail to bring audiences back to what made the show so entertaining, the heart of it all!

What made "SNL" in 2001 so memorable was this legendary comedienne.

That's right. This was Tina Fey!

Fans of SNL and those who don’t watch might know her from another one of her greatest productions- "30 Rock"

Fey appeared in SNL, and was quickly picked up for the cast.
While the actress worked behind-the-scenes for some time. "Season 26" gave audiences a whole new appreciation for her incredible talent! It was such a delight to see Fey and Jimmy Fallon bring such an electrifying energy to their role.

Season 21

A screenshot of Kristen Wiig's Target Lady in Saturday Night Live Image

What you see is some pretty big names coming together for a memorable experience for SNL! Fans were blown away with season 21 and a massive transition!

A cast shake-up!
Adam Sandler
Chris Farley

The show brought in some new characters to step into those massive roles. If you think this wasn't a good move! A true gem made his debut.

The cast, however, brought an icon to the scene.
Will Ferrell

And fans are forever grateful.

But he wasn't the only one!

You saw the great Molly Shannon, who played so many iconic roles.
You also had Chris Kattan

What made this period special for "SNL", there were characters who truly resonated. They made everyone love them! Some of these icons are still some of the favorites.

The incredible, Spartan Cheerleaders!
We’ve got "Mary Katherine Gallagher"
A pair of characters that got together. They are known as the "Roxbury Guys!

A big part of the series' evolution and it showed just how the SNL crew would always know just what audiences love!

Season 34

SNL sketch with Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer Image

It's incredible how history really shapes some of the greatest stories! With real events taking place, SNL is at its most impactful. A major US election year and that really brought audiences to watch a series like no other!

You saw Barack Obama
And his competitor, John McCain, running for office.

In a time with so many great choices, the cast members found the ideal figure, and the performance would earn this actress a "Emmy Award!"

That's right, they took a closer look into Sarah Palin!

It really wasn't enough to see Tina Fey bring this character to life! What's so impressive, that Palin was the key and this brought major acclaim.

That wasn't all of the amazing highlights. There was a press conference for the world's attention where she joined "Hillary Clinton!"

What was truly special! Was the return of an iconic SNL star. You guessed it.

Will Ferrell came back in his role as "George W. Bush!"

This also was another interesting dynamic because there was a time that the real Sarah Palin graced the screen as well, which shows just what a major cultural impact "SNL" has! And in that same year they had to say goodbye to a super famous actress. This marks the very last season where Amy Poehler made an appearance!

Season 42

Season 42 has everyone thinking of what it really is. The show really came into focus as the world experienced big moments of social and political tension. The writing at that moment made for some real stand-out performances.

There was also some super entertaining performances that made this time memorable as well. This season really brought big names from Hollywood like Tom Hanks, Margot Robbie, and Emily Blunt.

One of the most iconic and popular performers was "Alec Baldwin." Baldwin took the role as "President Donald Trump." That show had a big cultural impact.
This also had Kate McKinnon giving audiences one of the most hilarious takes on "Hillary Clinton." She had an amazing impression. There is no surprise this got major hype! They also went with some awesome new segments as well. You will also have to add these memorable and classic SNL sketches to your list.
"Black Jeopardy." Fans loved seeing this.
And "Whiskers R' We," with Kristen Wiig was one of the craziest and funniest!
"Haunted Elevator." This episode features a character, David S. Pumpkins.

Season 42 was another big SNL success.

Season 8:

Andy Samberg and Justin Timberlake pose in the Dick in a Box Sketch from SNL Image

It is really remarkable to think about those early, and classic moments from SNL! There's an energy, excitement and those performances, some of the greatest and some of the craziest that will stay with you forever! With so many cast changes. "SNL" had to change its ways and adjust how they brought new characters in!

One of the big changes in the seasons after 6

That means we all have Season 8

As one of those game changing moments, a chance for them to bring it back with all that fantastic energy. Season 8 did so, and got a major boost from "Julia Louis-Dreyfus!"

But if we want to think about a star that really had fans paying attention, there's someone who stands above the rest!

Eddie Murphy! You have to acknowledge what this actor brought. Not just SNL

You have the famous, Gumby
"Mr. Robinson"

One of the more incredible events in SNL history. As it turned out, Eddie Murphy had one of his biggest highlights! This show was incredibly popular and the iconic movie "48 Hrs"

If Murphy wanted to do something wild. That is where they really broke ground!

Season 4

The Coneheads in black and white on SNL Image

While some of the early seasons are the ones that often are not given enough appreciation. This was an incredible time as the world fell in love with this comedy series! Season 4, was the start of what would be a re-imagining of what SNL was all about!

To start it's important to remember "Season 4" was the last appearance for two very special stars. Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi they brought an intense level of laughter, so this was a major moment for SNL! To add to that change the show saw an amazing and incredibly funny star!

That is, of course, Bill Murray!

These guys, who brought amazing humor were on their way! The series went through many adjustments as it moved toward new changes in television. This season had some super, fantastic host performances!

Steve Martin is known to fans!
Elliott Gould!
The one and only Buck Henry!

Season 4! Really was the time for a memorable "SNL." Season 4! Fans will always love it as a powerful moment!

This really showed just how great SNL was. Audiences were so impressed that "The Blues Brothers" appeared to deliver an incredible, memorable performance and one that everyone watched over and over. These are icons of music that are now legends. You can even get the movie, it's really good!

The memorable, iconic, phrase from SNL. "Jane, you ignorant slut!"

And in SNL's history it is an iconic line that fans often bring up. These words made history and were a big part of SNL's first chapter.

Season 39:

Phil Hartman as the caveman on SNL Image

SNL keeps coming up with interesting content and shows just what this series is capable of! They were working up to season 40! This season had to overhaul its entire cast, a risky move!

Every one of these characters that made this series so successful were leaving!

This means some fresh, new, and very special faces are needed! While some thought that would be a major struggle for SNL, that season proved just how amazing and entertaining they really are! It had so many exciting moments that brought in big time, great performers like:

The show's writers came up with the perfect formula with iconic, great guests!
John Goodman
Tina Fey!

This also was an opportunity to shake things up!

You also had this incredible artist Sasheer Zamata!

With these big names, it certainly set the stage for an unforgettable season! You also got a look into the new crew that became standouts like "4th Grade Talent Show," a truly powerful and unique performance!

What stands out more about season 39. Is the diversity and its depth! You can get an understanding of this incredible team! It looked like a fantastic year for SNL!

Season 18

Dan Aykroyd and Steve Martin laugh as the Festrunk Brothers on SNL Image

Season 18 was the year of change!

Fans will have a hard time believing Mike Myers
And Dana Carvey were both not on screen during some parts of this season.
It's even more special since this is Chris Rock's last season as well.
David Spade was also becoming popular and moving up in Hollywood.
What would set the tone of this season? That was a performance by Sinead O'Connor. She tore up a picture of the "Pope"

It seems this kind of change! Can bring even more interest. These changes that made season 18 so unpredictable!

A special part, and you see a truly great part of SNL, is their ability to always come back and have audiences rolling.

In this case you've got the memorable, hilarious "Matt Foley." This was a character brought to life by Chris Farley! You can never forget Farley. "Matt Foley." gave audiences a new glimpse of one of the greatest, and he really made his mark on this series. If you haven't watched his most popular sketch where you hear "van down by the river. It is an SNL moment to remember. But those were not the only amazing moments you had during this time.

You also get "Gap Girls." They came onto the screen in this amazing episode.
Adam Sandler appeared! It might be hard to believe this is one of the earlier moments. Sandler was still establishing his comedic chops. That gave audiences a peek into the kind of roles they had! This show was truly epic! And in the history of "SNL" is one of those seasons to appreciate.

Season 17

What's truly wild about "SNL"? It was not always successful, but it never quit! You've got the 80s that's often seen as a rocky time. There's a point, however, where things just became better!

Fans are going to really love seeing these talented people who came on board. You’ve got a true turning point. There were incredible performers that came in and out. It is a true delight. Chris Farley was given a larger role as he continued to climb those ranks to make a big name.

And that is when you see the talents of a comedic force of nature
That's right "Chris Rock," who also made an appearance.
In that season you also had other talents who continued their careers for ages. "Season 17" really showed what these performers were capable of and made them superstars. There's no way you won't appreciate these roles.

The performers that really got the big spotlight. There were a lot of iconic duos as well.

A fantastic actor who always brought a special sense of charm,
Mike Myers
"Dana Carvey"

In a few moments, audiences were truly hooked.

The awesome and always funny Wayne's World came to life.
"The Mr. Belvedere Fanclub." What's truly great about this show. These creative personalities give everyone a chance to shine.
The "Opera Man," which had audiences in stitches.
What about the "Chris Farley Show."

"Season 17 " has really left an impression!

To look at these comedic stars and see that some of those characters are some of the biggest today,

Season 33

Sometimes things really take you by surprise. A truly iconic season with lots of interesting challenges to work through. In that case it was the "Writer's Strike," but as a series that always persevered they had to really adjust and change some of their big plans!

What turned out? Well, this show just went on! And those talented performers really came through and pushed this forward!

Season 33 brought a dynamic cast and this really put some power behind some of their more well known stars who have been with the show for years and who kept it entertaining.

A few of those artists are Bill Hader and Andy Samberg.
Kristen Wiig

In Season 33, there are several big moments.

Tina Fey made an amazing appearance.
It wouldn't be the same without some of the other legendary performers such as Christopher Walken!
Amy Poehler
Seth Meyers! They were great, taking on those special hosting moments!
There's just so much you can learn! These characters bring humor with every single one of those performances.

If you’re thinking this is just SNL. Think again. There were some special things happening that season. You had this iconic and groundbreaking SNL performance that had to take place and it also marked a moment of celebration! For the show.

That is Kristen Wiig.,

It turns out, that one artist made so many memorable characters.
You’ve also got “4th Grade Talent Show" a memorable and fantastic show to see! If that isn’t enough to get everyone interested in "SNL" we've got another one you’ll love!
"New Wes Anderson Horror Trailer!" This season was full of surprises, showing why everyone loves this iconic comedy series!

Season 38:

The "SNL" crews often switch characters!

With the exit of these characters:

Bill Hader
Jason Sudeikis
Fred Armisen.

They always keep it exciting.

And season 38 didn't just switch things up, but had the arrival of two special performers, Jay Pharoah

These individuals would really gain a lot of momentum, giving "SNL" so many epic moments.

With all the success.
Cecily Strong joined the cast!

There’s nothing like seeing these stars on screen!

Hader brought his memorable character back in one of the most unforgettable sketches.
And that's of course, "Stefon.".
One of the most powerful, funniest, and fun segments, "Stefon’s Halloween Tips"

The biggest surprise though, came when Jay Pharoah gave one of the best Barack Obama impersonations ever!

You can really see the starpower and amazing comedic range!

That season. If you love "SNL." You have to make sure you check out "Puppet Class." What made season 38 unique. This talent was everywhere.

Ben Affleck
Melissa McCarthy
Seth MacFarlane. They had an unforgettable season!

Season 37

Election seasons always bring such funny moments. That’s right, a few memorable seasons and season 37! This one really stands out.

Season 37 brought the best content to audiences and gave viewers a couple of the most memorable performers:

Kristen Wiig!. It is one of her last times on SNL
There's always a chance to celebrate her as she was part of the series for years! What about Andy Samberg?

These great performers are a large part of what made this season great! Season 37! Fans will remember.

What else stands out! That there are a lot of the same cast as before. But the changes were made and it also meant another change in how audiences could get more involved and celebrate the talents that made "SNL" so great.

If there was ever a season where diversity shined it is Season 37!

The show welcomed "Kate McKinnon", who helped break new ground. She was the very first openly gay cast member! This made everyone pay attention.
“Bronx Beat.” What you're watching in this season is a cast that was so powerful and gave everyone what they needed. And with some re-introductions from some of those talented artists that they wanted back. What you will see.
“Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Laughs” You can't help but remember this time, when “Maya Angelou” brought joy! This show has the perfect way to put an eclectic group together! With this season, they're always coming back to make things unforgettable! And that also meant “Stefon."

Season 27

You've got Season 27 that stands out!

In the 2000s! This was a time where the series found a whole new spark. Season 27, was just one of many incredible, super entertaining moments.

Here are those stars that came out!

The incredible Will Ferrell and those iconic scenes!
Rachel Dratch!.
This couldn't be complete without "Tina Fey! "
And who could forget Amy Poehler.
Maya Rudolph

This is some power, comedic talent! You also have those performers who helped establish what made "SNL so unique. These memorable roles were just incredible and fans can always look back on Season 27 for what made SNL so entertaining and heartwarming.

Will Ferrell! In “Patriotic Shorts".
And of course "Lovers"!

You get a blend of humor and excitement with some big name performers that really made things entertaining for all!

"Ian McKellan."
The one and only “Winona Ryder.”
Drew Barrymore

A true reflection of a very memorable "SNL."

Season 1

As we all know. Those very first seasons are important! To go through those challenges of creating an entirely new way of entertaining those who want some laughs and memorable comedy!

In Season 1. You’ve got a very special crew. And a bunch of actors! who, at that time, weren't really known.

There was Dan Aykroyd.
John Belushi, an incredible performer.
Chevy Chase!

Those are three, amazing people! Who knew that the stars that came onto the show would be a game changer in television history? A really new formula!

That’s what you are seeing here in "SNL’s", season 1! It wasn’t just those three stars though!

Some of these individuals went on to become iconic. It really sets the tone for those amazing comedic performances, and in this particular instance those performers also had one more interesting element to them.

These actors hosted this show more than once. That was no surprise that they were fan favorites as it started a journey! If you look back in time.

You have the very first Emmy nomination.

Season 1, gave everyone a chance to watch, as it launched SNL onto the big stage.

Season 32

It seems like, SNL never gives audiences a moment to become bored. With new and amazing, talented, and inspiring content.

In "Season 32," You're seeing something unique, as this iconic show adapted to a world that was starting to change as internet trends grew! There's no way you couldn't acknowledge the group that's been behind the internet! The super funny “Lonely Island”, brought incredible performances, adding another side of "SNL." This group really established itself. This was their period for success.

Darrell Hammond and Fred Armisen. They made some really amazing history and really left a lasting impression! This was also the time when so many new stars joined SNL, with so much more