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“Saturday Night Live” has been a breeding ground for remarkable celebrity impressions. Over the years, talented cast members have delivered performances that both entertain and capture the essence of famous personalities.
Whether they highlight the absurdities of public figures or provide insightful satire, these impressions have left a lasting impact on audiences.
Here, we explore the 14 greatest SNL celebrity impressions that remain iconic and memorable.
1. Dana Carvey as George H.W. Bush
Dana Carvey’s portrayal of George H.W. Bush on SNL became synonymous with the former president himself. His exaggerated mannerisms, particularly the famous “not gonna do it” line, captured audiences’ imaginations. Carvey’s Bush was both respectful and pointedly humorous, bringing a lovable absurdity to the character.
The way Carvey mimicked Bush’s cadence and speech patterns was masterful. Audiences found themselves laughing at the exaggerated yet strangely accurate depiction. This impression didn’t just entertain; it became a cultural touchstone, influencing how people viewed the former president.
Carvey’s talent turned this impression into a defining moment in SNL history.
2. Will Ferrell as George W. Bush
Will Ferrell’s impersonation of George W. Bush on SNL brought comedic brilliance to the political arena. His portrayal introduced the word “strategery,” embedding it into popular culture. Ferrell’s Bush was a blend of charm, confusion, and comedic timing that resonated with audiences.
His exaggerated Texan drawl and befuddled expressions created a caricature that felt both endearing and satirical. Ferrell’s Bush captured the political landscape of the era, offering a humorous escape while providing subtle social commentary.
Through laughter and exaggeration, Ferrell made this impression an unforgettable part of his comedic legacy on SNL.
3. Tina Fey as Sarah Palin
Tina Fey’s impression of Sarah Palin was so spot-on that many people found it indistinguishable from the real thing. Her uncanny ability to mimic Palin’s Alaskan accent and mannerisms made it a standout performance on SNL.
Fey’s portrayal included memorable lines that echoed Palin’s own speeches, amplifying their comedic potential. Her visual resemblance to Palin added another layer to the humor, making each appearance a must-watch.
This impression didn’t just entertain—it influenced public perception and became a defining portrayal of the former vice-presidential candidate’s public persona.
4. Alec Baldwin as Donald Trump
Alec Baldwin’s portrayal of Donald Trump on SNL quickly became a fan favorite, earning him an Emmy for his performance. His exaggerated facial expressions and distinct voice captured the former president’s mannerisms in a way that was both hilarious and biting.
Baldwin’s Trump was an over-the-top caricature, complete with a trademark scowl and exaggerated hand gestures. The impression highlighted the absurdities of Trump’s public persona, offering viewers both laughter and insight.
This impression became a cultural phenomenon, encapsulating a turbulent political era with humor and wit, and it remains one of SNL’s most iconic performances.
5. Kate McKinnon as Hillary Clinton
Kate McKinnon’s impression of Hillary Clinton combined satire with a touch of empathy, capturing both the ambition and awkwardness of the political figure. Her performance was both biting and oddly endearing, making it a standout on SNL.
McKinnon’s Clinton was not just a caricature; it was a nuanced portrayal that reflected the complexities of the real person. Her ability to transition between humor and sincerity made the impression relatable and memorable.
Through this impression, McKinnon offered insights into Clinton’s public and private personas, leaving audiences both amused and reflective.
6. Darrell Hammond as Bill Clinton
Darrell Hammond’s portrayal of Bill Clinton became a defining impression on SNL, not just for its accuracy but for its charm. From the smirk to the voice, Hammond embodied the former president with a level of detail that was both impressive and entertaining.
His Clinton was a blend of charisma and humor, capturing the essence of Clinton’s public image. Whether playing the saxophone or delivering a humorous monologue, Hammond’s performance was always spot-on.
This impression didn’t just entertain; it offered a lens into the charisma and complexities of Bill Clinton, making it a staple in SNL history.
7. Eddie Murphy as James Brown
Eddie Murphy’s portrayal of James Brown on SNL was high-energy and hilariously unforgettable. His “Hot Tub” sketch captured Brown’s exuberant stage presence, complete with exaggerated dance moves and vocal antics.
Murphy’s impression wasn’t just about mimicry; it was a celebration of Brown’s larger-than-life persona. The sketch became an instant classic, highlighting Murphy’s comedic genius and ability to entertain.
Through laughter and satire, Murphy’s James Brown impression offered a fun-loving tribute to the musical legend, making it one of SNL’s most memorable performances.
8. Phil Hartman as Ronald Reagan
Phil Hartman’s portrayal of Ronald Reagan on SNL was a brilliant twist on the public perception of the former president. Hartman played Reagan as a behind-the-scenes mastermind, adding layers of humor and intrigue.
His impression turned the affable Reagan into a strategic genius, contrasting the public’s view with hilarious results. Hartman’s ability to blend comedy with political satire made this impression stand out.
This performance not only entertained but also offered a unique perspective on Reagan’s presidency, cementing it as a classic in SNL’s comedic repertoire.
9. Melissa Villaseñor as Lady Gaga
Melissa Villaseñor’s impression of Lady Gaga was a masterclass in mimicry, capturing the pop star’s unique voice and theatrical flair. Her spot-on performance on SNL highlighted both the artistry and eccentricity of Lady Gaga.
Villaseñor’s ability to imitate Gaga’s vocal nuances and stage presence was uncanny, making audiences do a double-take. Her performance was both a homage and a playful satire, celebrating Gaga’s impact on music and culture.
This impression showcased Villaseñor’s versatility as a comedian and performer, making it a delightful addition to SNL’s collection of memorable sketches.
10. Jay Pharoah as Barack Obama
Jay Pharoah’s impression of Barack Obama was a standout on SNL, capturing the former president’s smooth charisma and deliberate speech patterns. His performance was both respectful and comedic, offering a nuanced take on Obama’s public persona.
Pharoah’s Obama was characterized by his precise mimicry of the president’s voice and gestures, making it both entertaining and insightful. This impression didn’t just entertain; it provided social commentary on the political landscape.
By blending humor with respect, Pharoah’s Obama impression remains one of the most praised portrayals in SNL history, resonating with audiences nationwide.
11. Bill Hader as Alan Alda
Bill Hader’s impression of Alan Alda on SNL demonstrated his incredible talent for mimicry and humor. Hader captured Alda’s distinctive voice and mannerisms with precision, creating a hilarious tribute to the M*A*S*H star.
His portrayal was both affectionate and exaggerated, highlighting the nuances that made Alda a beloved figure in television. Hader’s performance was not only comedic but also showcased his ability to embody different characters.
This impression became a fan favorite, celebrating Alda’s contributions to entertainment while displaying Hader’s comedic prowess.
12. Chloe Fineman as Drew Barrymore
Chloe Fineman’s impression of Drew Barrymore on SNL was both endearing and spot-on, capturing the actress’s unique voice and bubbly personality. Her performance brought Barrymore’s charm to life, making it a delightful watch.
Fineman’s portrayal included Barrymore’s signature expressions and animated movements, adding layers of humor to the impression. It was a loving homage to an iconic figure in entertainment.
This impression showcased Fineman’s skill as a comedian and her ability to evoke laughter while celebrating Barrymore’s vibrant spirit, adding a fresh touch to SNL’s lineup of celebrity impressions.
13. Norm Macdonald as Burt Reynolds (aka Turd Ferguson)
Norm Macdonald’s portrayal of Burt Reynolds, known as Turd Ferguson, on SNL’s Celebrity Jeopardy sketches became an iconic part of the show. His cool-guy demeanor and humorous interactions with the host made the character unforgettable.
Macdonald’s Reynolds was a blend of swagger and sarcasm, creating a comedic character that stood out in the ensemble cast. His performance was both ridiculous and endearing, winning over audiences.
This impression became a beloved part of SNL history, showcasing Macdonald’s talent for comedy and character work, and leaving a lasting impact on fans.
14. Kristen Wiig as Suze Orman
Kristen Wiig’s impression of Suze Orman on SNL was a comedic highlight, capturing the financial guru’s animated style and energetic delivery. Her portrayal was both exaggerated and surprisingly accurate, making it a hit with audiences.
Wiig’s Orman was characterized by her enthusiastic gestures and quirky catchphrases, adding a humorous twist to the financial advice. The impression was both a satire and a celebration of Orman’s unique persona.
This performance showcased Wiig’s comedic talent and ability to transform into diverse characters, making it a standout in SNL’s roster of celebrity impressions.