Live From New York, It’s Saturday Night! Can You Name These SNL Legends?
Are you a true Saturday Night Live aficionado? Test your knowledge in our SNL cast member naming quiz! Get ready to challenge yourself with questions about the iconic comedians and performers who’ve graced the SNL stage over the years. Can you identify the legends who’ve left us in stitches, from Chevy Chase to Tina Fey or newer favorites like Kate McKinnon and Pete Davidson?
Prove you’re the ultimate SNL enthusiast by matching names to faces in this entertaining quiz. It’s time to see if you’ve got what it takes to name the stars who’ve made Saturday nights unforgettable!
Who was known for the character Roseanne Roseannadanna?
A. Jane Curtin
B. Gilda Radner
C. Laraine Newman
D. Robin Duke
Answer: Gilda Radner
Gilda Radner, a comedic trailblazer and original SNL cast member, charmed audiences in the 1970s with her vivacious characters and infectious humor, leaving an enduring legacy in the annals of Saturday Night Live history.
He was one of the original “Blues Brothers.”
A. Garrett Morris
B. Michael O’Donoghue
C. John Belushi
D. Jim Belushi
Answer: John Belushi
John Belushi, a comedy legend and original SNL cast member, blazed a trail with his unmatched energy and memorable characters, such as the anarchic “Samurai Futaba.” His impact on Saturday Night Live’s early years remains legendary.
He became a household name for hosting “Weekend Update” and other slapstick comedy skits.
A. Bill Murray
B. Tom Davis
C. Al Franken
D. Chevy Chase
Answer: Chevy Chase
Chevy Chase, an original SNL cast member, redefined comedy with his suave Weekend Update delivery, signature pratfalls, and the iconic opening line, “Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night!” His wit and physical humor remain legendary in the world of sketch comedy.
You may remember him as Nick the Lounge Singer.
A. Bill Murray
B. Peter Aykroyd
C. Jim Downey
D. Brian Doyle-Murray
Answer: Bill Murray
Bill Murray, a beloved SNL alum, brought irreverent humor to the show through iconic characters and his “Weekend Update” appearances. His wit and unique style made him an enduring fan favorite in the SNL legacy.
Who is the woman who was one of the first female co-anchors on “Weekend Update”?
A. Yvonne Hudson
B. Jane Curtin
C. Laraine Newman
D. Gail Matthius
Answer: Jane Curtin
Jane Curtin, an original SNL cast member, showcased her exceptional comedic talents as the co-anchor of “Weekend Update.” Her intelligence, wit, and versatility made her a standout presence during the formative years of Saturday Night Live.
Who is known for iconic characters such as Gumby, Buckwheat, and Mr. Robinson?
A. Don Novello
B. Joe Piscopo
C. Eddie Murphy
D. Charles Rocket
Answer: Eddie Murphy
Eddie Murphy, a Saturday Night Live sensation in the 1980s, left an indelible mark with his electric energy and legendary characters like Gumby and Buckwheat. His transformative impact on SNL launched a groundbreaking career in comedy and film.
One of his most popular SNL characters was Fernando Lamas.
A. Tony Rosato
B. Patrick Weathers
C. Brad Hall
D. Billy Crystal
Answer: Billy Crystal
Billy Crystal, a comedic gem during the 1984-1985 SNL season, delighted audiences with his versatile characters, including the suave Fernando Lamas and spot-on impressions of Sammy Davis Jr. His wit and charm left an unforgettable mark on the show.
Before hitting it big on Seinfeld, this actress was a performer on SNL.
A. Julia Louis-Dreyfus
B. Pamela Stephenson
C. Joan Cusack
D. Nora Dunn
Answer: Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, a dynamic presence on Saturday Night Live in the early 1980s, showcased her comic talent with memorable characters and impressions. Her wit and versatility laid the foundation for a celebrated career in comedy.
He was in sketches such as “Wild and Crazy Guys,” “the Blues Brothers,” and “Coneheads.”
A. Dan Aykroyd
B. John Belushi
C. Chevy Chase
D. George Coe
Answer: Dan Aykroyd
Dan Aykroyd, a comedic force on Saturday Night Live in the late 1970s, was known for his versatility and memorable characters, including the “Blues Brothers.” His wit and charisma left an indelible mark on the show’s rich history.
He was celebrated for his zany characters such as Ed Grimley and Jackie Rogers Jr.
A. Gary Kroeger
B. Martin Short
C. Steve Martin
D. Tim Kazurinsky
Answer: Martin Short
Martin Short brought uproarious laughter with his eccentric characters like Ed Grimley and the flamboyant Jackie Rogers Jr. His quirky humor and comedic brilliance left an indelible mark on the show.
Name the actor known for his improv skills in skits such as Nigel Tufnel and Ronny Pober.
A. Jon Lovitz
B. Tom Schiller
C. Christopher Guest
D. Denny Dillon
Answer: Christopher Guest
Christopher Guest, a gifted comedic performer, enriched Saturday Night Live during the mid-1980s with his brilliant improvisational skills and memorable characters like Nigel Tufnel and Ronny Pober. His unique brand of humor made a lasting impact on the show.
He followed in his brother’s footsteps and joined SNL in 1983.
A. Peter Aykroyd
B. Robert Downey Jr.
C. Jon Belushi
D. Jim Belushi
Answer: Jim Belushi
A few years after Jon Belushi joined the show, Jim Belushi joined Saturday Night Live in the 1983-1984 season. He delivered memorable characters and performances that showcased his comedic talent. His presence added to the show’s rich history.
Which member of the Brat Pack was on SNL in the ’80s?
A. Anthony Michael Hall
B. Andrew McCarthy
C. Judd Nelson
D. Emilio Estevez
Answer: Anthony Michael Hall
Anthony Michael Hall, known for his roles in ’80s teen films, briefly joined the Saturday Night Live cast in 1985, providing youthful energy and humor. His stint on SNL marked a transition from teen actor to comedy performer.
He was in popular skits such as “Church Lady” and “Wayne’s World.”
A. Dennis Miller
B. Dana Carvey
C. Randy Quaid
D. Damon Wayans
Answer: Dana Carvey
Dana Carvey, a Saturday Night Live stalwart, graced the show from 1986 to 1993 with unforgettable characters like the Church Lady and Ross Perot. His impeccable impressions and comedic genius made him an SNL legend.
One of his most iconic SNL characters was Wayne Campbell in “Wayne’s World.”
A. Ben Stiller
B. Kevin Nealon
C. Mike Myers
D. Dan Vitale
Answer: Mike Myers
Mike Myers, a comedic virtuoso, ignited Saturday Night Live in the early 1990s with unforgettable characters like Wayne Campbell and Dieter, eventually bringing Austin Powers to life. His humor and wit continue to define SNL’s legacy.
Before becoming a comedy movie superstar, this talented actor got his start on SNL.
A. David Spade
B. Chris Rock
C. Rob Schneider
D. Adam Sandler
Answer: Adam Sandler
Adam Sandler, an SNL standout from 1991 to 1995, became synonymous with absurd humor and classic characters like Opera Man and Canteen Boy. His irreverent style and memorable sketches are cherished by fans.
Fans loved her as Mary Katherine Gallagher.
A. Molly Shannon
B. Julia Sweeney
C. Sarah Silverman
D. Cheri Oteri
Answer: Molly Shannon
Molly Shannon, a dynamic SNL cast member from 1995 to 2001, delighted audiences with her vibrant characters, notably Mary Katherine Gallagher. Her energetic and fearless performances made her a beloved figure in the SNL pantheon.
Which larger-than-life comedian was known for his energetic character Matt Foley?
A. Tim Meadows
B. Chris Farley
C. Chris Rock
D. Robert Smigel
Answer: Chris Farley
Chris Farley, a comedic force on SNL during the 1990s, was renowned for his outrageous characters like Matt Foley and his exuberant physical comedy. His larger-than-life performances continue to be celebrated in SNL history.
This comedian brought razor-sharp social commentary to SNL in the ’90s.
A. Tim Meadows
B. Jay Mohr
C. Chris Rock
D. Chris Elliott
Answer: Chris Rock
Chris Rock, a standout SNL cast member in the early 1990s, wielded his incisive humor and sharp social commentary, making an indelible mark. His unforgettable characters and biting wit contributed to the show’s legacy.
He is known for his sardonic humor and memorable characters such as the “Hollywood Minute” host.
A. Rob Schneider
B. Adam Sandler
C. Norm Macdonald
D. David Spade
Answer: David Spade
David Spade, a master of sardonic humor, brought a sharp, satirical edge to Saturday Night Live in the 1990s. His iconic “Hollywood Minute” segments and memorable characters continue to define his comedic legacy on the show.
This funny man brought many iconic characters to SNL to the 2000s such as Marty Culp and Craig the Cheerleader.
A. Will Ferrell
B. Jimmy Fallon
C. Darrell Hammond
D. Fred Wolf
Answer: Will Ferrell
Will Ferrell, a comedy giant during his seven-year SNL tenure, delivered iconic characters to the show. His boundless energy and absurd humor made him a fan favorite, solidifying his place in SNL history.
Before becoming a major late-night host, he honed his comedic skills on SNL.
A. Jimmy Kimmel
B. Stephen Colbert
C. Jimmy Fallon
D. Seth Meyers
Answer: Jimmy Fallon
Jimmy Fallon, a beloved SNL cast member, brought infectious enthusiasm and charm to the show. His iconic sketches, including “The Barry Gibb Talk Show,” and his impeccable celebrity impressions have solidified his place in SNL’s rich history.
She was on SNL in the 2000s and could do spot-on impressions such as Beyoncé.
A. Amy Poehler
B. Maya Rudolph
C. Kristen Wiig
D. Michaela Watkins
Answer: Maya Rudolph
Maya Rudolph, a comedic virtuoso, graced Saturday Night Live in the 2000s with her flawless impressions and iconic characters like Beyoncé. Her versatile talent and charisma continue to be celebrated in the SNL canon.
This 2000s SNL actress impersonated tons of celebrities including Dakota Fanning and Sharon Osbourne.
A. Kristen Wiig
B. Tina Fey
C. Amy Poehler
D. Casey Wilson
Answer: Amy Poehler
Amy Poehler, a dynamic SNL cast member, enchanted audiences with her sharp wit and memorable characters. Her contributions as a writer and performer made her an indispensable part of the show’s comedic legacy.
He was one of the most memorable “Weekend Update” anchors.
A. Horatio Sanz
B. Jerry Minor
C. Dean Edwards
D. Seth Meyers
Answer: Seth Meyers
Seth Meyers, an SNL fixture, distinguished himself as the “Weekend Update” anchor with his clever political satire. His writing and performances, including iconic sketches like “Really!?” and “Boston Teens,” left an indelible mark on the show.
After being on SNL for over a decade, he performed hundreds of impressions.
A. Fred Armisen
B. Jeff Richards
C. Will Forte
D. Finesse Mitchell
Answer: Fred Armisen
Fred Armisen, a polymathic SNL cast member in the mid-2000s, dazzled with his diverse character portrayals, including Mackey, Stuart, Roger Brush, and Ritchie B. His versatility enriched SNL’s comedic tapestry.
Who was famously fired for making fun of O.J. Simpson?
A. Colin Quinn
B. Norm MacDonald
C. Charles Rocket
D. Seth Meyers
Answer: Norm MacDonald
Although the late great comedian never shied away from any subject matter, his sly, rapier wit was particularly trained on O.J. Simpson during the disgraced football star’s infamous trial. According to Variety, NBC president Don Ohlmeyer’s friendship with Simpson likely influenced MacDonald’s firing from Saturday Night Live after he refused to relent on his incisive Weekend Update segments.
Who sacrificed her place among SNL’s cast for her principles?
A. Ana Gasteyer
B. Cheri Oteri
C. Nora Dunn
D. Laraine Newman
Answer: Nora Dunn
Saturday Night Live has had some infamous guest hosts over the years, but one was controversial enough to sow discord even within the show’s own ranks. According to Time, Nora Dunn considered comedian Andrew Dice Clay’s act so misogynistic that she refused to perform when he guest hosted, effectively ending her time on the show.
What comedian spent six years doing the Weekend Update?
A. Norm MacDonald
B. Colin Quinn
C. Dennis Miller
D. Pete Davidson
Answer: Dennis Miller
Famous for his sarcastic yet erudite style of snappy monologues, Dennis Miller was added to Saturday Night Live‘s cast during an experimental 1985 season that promised a major shake-up in the show’s format. The new paradigm didn’t last, but Miller was kept on as the host of the Weekend Update until 1991.
Who tried to parlay his time on SNL into a film career?
A. George Coe
B. Michael O’Donoghue
C. Joe Piscopo
D. Tom Davis
Answer: Joe Piscopo
Although he had a steady tenure on Saturday Night Live and was known for his impressions of Frank Sinatra, Leonard Nimoy, and Ronald Reagan, Joe Piscopo found it difficult to break into Hollywood after leaving the show. He appeared on a show called 100 Deeds for Eddie McDowd and starred in the movie Dead Heat, but major success eluded Piscopo.
Who found fleeting success with the poorly aged character, Pat?
A. Jan Hooks
B. Nasim Pedrad
C. Denny Dillon
D. Julia Sweeney
Answer: Julia Sweeney
Although Julia Sweeney didn’t find herself becoming a household name, she nonetheless attracted some attention in the early ’90s for her androgynous character, Pat. Although the character proved popular enough to inspire their own movie, that popularity was short-lived, and the movie is one of Saturday Night Live‘s most infamous failures. Sweeney now regrets creating Pat in the wake of long-time criticism from the LGBTQ+ community.
What physical comedian was full of boundless energy?
A. Will Ferrell
B. Tracy Morgan
C. Chris Kattan
D. Adam Sandler
Answer: Chris Kattan
Although Chris Kattan’s most famous character led him to co-star with Will Ferrell in A Night At The Roxbury, that role didn’t really express the impressive physicality that he was capable of. Bizarre as they are, the series of Mr. Peepers sketches he starred in showed how much Kattan was willing and able to commit to the bit.
What performer was known to wear a large bow in her hair?
A. Pamela Stephenson
B. Beth Cahill
C. Mary Gross
D. Victoria Jackson
Answer: Victoria Jackson
Although they aren’t considered the strongest years in the show’s history, Victoria Jackson nonetheless found herself among the cast of Saturday Night Live between 1986 and 1992. Known for her penchant for large hair bows and high-pitched voice, Jackson appeared in the films UHF, Family Business, and The Pick-Up Artist but didn’t find much success after leaving SNL.
Who was the star of several comedies in the early 2000s?
A. Rich Hall
B. Gary Kroeger
C. Rob Schneider
D. Brad Hall
Answer: Rob Schneider
Perhaps best known for his catchphrase-spewing office drone “The Richmeister,” Rob Schneider can likely attribute much of his film success to his friendship with Adam Sandler. However, he was able to star in films like The Hot Chick and The Animal after the success of Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo.
Who was best known for “Father Guido Sarducci?”
A. Jay Mohr
B. Don Novello
C. David Koechner
D. Jim Breuer
Answer: Don Novello
Although he received significant notoriety for playing the overly casual priest Father Guido Sarducci in Saturday Night Live‘s 1979-1980 season, Don Novello had written for the show for years by that point. Novello would also play Father Sarducci in Blossom, Married…With Children, and the Casper The Friendly Ghost movie from 1995.
Who was the first Black Saturday Night Live cast member?
A. Damon Wayans
B. Tim Meadows
C. Jerry Minor
D. Garrett Morris
Answer: Garrett Morris
As part of the original cast of Saturday Night Live, Garrett Morris established with presence with characters like baseball player Schico Escuela and the Weekend Update’s shouting “News for the Hard of Hearing” translator. Morris has acted steadily after his five seasons on SNL, most notably on The Jamie Foxx Show and 2 Broke Girls.
Which reliable cast member was nonetheless fired twice?
A. Alan Zweibel
B. Chris Parnell
C. Matthew Laurance
D. Patrick Weathers
Answer: Chris Parnell
Although he’s perhaps better known for his voice acting nowadays, Chris Parnell was a regular cast member of Saturday Night Live for eight years. However, those eight years were broken up by two occasions, which saw him fired in 2001 and 2006. In both cases, budget cuts were blamed for Parnell’s dismissal.
Who was on SNL for a season before doing The Daily Show?
A. Rob Riggle
B. Tony Rosato
C. Terry Sweeney
D. A. Whitney Brown
Answer: Rob Riggle
Although former U.S. marine Rob Riggle was known for covering military affairs on The Daily Show until 2008, he enjoyed a brief stint on Saturday Night Live in the 2004-2005 season before taking on this role. He’s since appeared in comedies like 22 Jump Street, The Hangover, Talladega Nights, and Step Brothers.
What beloved comedian was taken from the world too soon?
A. Dan Vitale
B. Phil Hartman
C. Charles Rocket
D. Chris Elliott
Answer: Phil Hartman
Although Phil Hartman also had a hand in the success of Pee Wee Herman, he was such a reliably hilarious Saturday Night Live cast member that he all but held the show together during his run between 1986 and 1994. Although his star rose even more after he left the show thanks to high-profile movie roles and the sitcom Newsradio, he suddenly lost his life at his wife’s hands in 1998.
