Top 51 Best SNL Hosts of the Century So Far

#51: Maya Rudolph

As one of the most iconic cast members of the new millennium, Rudolph knows exactly how to deliver on the Studio 8H stage! 2024 marked her 3rd time hosting after her 2007 exit, and each episode is as iconic and hilarious as they come. Her impressions are unforgettable and dead-on– from Beyoncé on Hot Ones to her slate of Kamala Harris appearances, her guest sketches are truly for the record books. Anytime we see Maya Rudolph on our screens, we know we’re in for some huge laughs. But really, Bowen and Sarah said it best… she’s mother.

#50: Billie Eilish

The celebrated songbird has multiple Grammys to her name, but her sense of humor has a fanbase of its own. So, it made perfect sense that when she hosted “SNL” on December 11, 2021, she also performed as the musical guest for the holiday-themed night. From having a go at herself during her monologue to calling out the TikTok generation with her dancing nurse skit, Eilish delivered a memorable show. Her chemistry with the rest of the “SNL” cast, especially Kate McKinnon, made for a delightful watch. Needless to say, she also nailed her musical performances. In case you needed a reminder, she did all this at nineteen.

#49: Larry David

Fans could not curb their enthusiasm when the “Seinfeld” co-creator rocked up to Studio 8H as a host, not once, but twice – first in 2016, then a year later. We all know Larry David is a comedy genius, but something about the “SNL” air makes him even more of a hoot. This comes as no surprise, though. The man wrote for the show in the early stages of his career. However, sketches like “Bern Your Enthusiasm”, where he impersonates Bernie Sanders, and “New Wife”, where he amusingly breaks character, definitely bring out a new side of the star. We’d love to see him return for a third time.

#48: Jack Black

This film superstar’s larger-than-life energy is a perfect fit for the SNL stage! Jack Black’s appearances are nothing short of a treasure, with four fantastic hosting credits under his belt. Back in 2003, Black opened up season 29 with flair and a musical interlude– as he does! Want to feel super old? That show was also Kenan Thompson’s very first episode– time flies when you’re watching Jack Black host “Saturday Night Live”! More recently, his 2025 stint led to some unforgettable sketches. His ridiculous camera stings in “One Uppers” are burned into our memories forever. With almost 20 years between his two latest appearances, we’re hoping it won’t take as long to get him back to 30 Rock again!

#47: Adam Sandler

The “Happy Gilmore” star and “SNL” go way back. In the nineties, Adam Sandler was a writer on the show before being promoted to repertory player. After his departure, he went on to achieve massive success in Hollywood. Then, in 2019, he returned to “SNL” as a host. While Sandler has only taken on the role once, he truly kicked it out of the park. The “Sandler Family Reunion” sketch was the showstopper, with cast members like Beck Bennett, Pete Davidson, and Melissa Villaseñor giving us their best Sandler impressions. However, the host shone solo as well, especially in the “Romano Tours” piece. Of course, his sheer star power elevated the show, too.

#46: Peyton Manning

On March 24, 2007, The Sheriff walked into 30 Rock as an NFL legend and left as a newly discovered comedy king. The episode Peyton Manning hosted was filled to the brim with some of the most entertaining sketches. Who can forget “Locker Room Motivation”, where Manning joins Will Forte in an impromptu pep-dance? It had the entire cast breaking character! Even better was the “United Way” short, where the former quarterback is coaching kids, but he’s wildly out of line with no qualms about violence, physical or verbal. It was so popular that it became the representative sketch of season 32 in “SNL”’s “50 Seasons in 50 Days” collection. Not every celebrity host has such bragging rights.

#45: Anne Hathaway

“The Princess Diaries” star has a glowing reputation for her versatility across genres. So, it’s not surprising that she hosted “SNL” thrice, and each of those episodes received raving reviews. Her first time hosting was in 2008, when she blessed us by playing Mary Poppins. She returned in 2010, and some of the highest points of that episode were her Katie Holmes and Kate Middleton impressions. Finally, on her third time as host, she parodied “Homeland”, channeling Carrie Mathison, as played by Claire Danes. Through these sketches, Hathaway boasted effortless comedic timing, showcasing her extraordinary talent.

#44: Jake Gyllenhaal

You can always trust the “Donnie Darko” actor to bring the house down. Jake Gyllenhaal took on hosting duties for “SNL” in 2007, 2022, and 2024. What is particularly impressive about these episodes is Jake’s consistency. From his monologues to his sketches – there are rarely any dull moments! The first time around, we got Gyllenhaal in a dress and a wig breaking out into song. One of his best sketches during his next turn saw him in an outrageous couples therapy session, leaving us in stitches until the last second. The movie star’s strongest “SNL” episode, however, was his latest one. He closes out season 49 with some campy fun, like a hammy “Scooby-Doo” sketch, and an over-the-top musical number. Jake’s range is truly exquisite.

#43: Molly Shannon

She is often counted as one of the finest cast members in the history of “Saturday Night Live”. So, her glorious return to the “SNL” stage as a host – once in 2007, and then again in 2023 – was highly celebrated. The actress herself was pumped to be there, and it showed. In her 2007 episode, Molly brought back her signature character, Mary Katherine Gallagher, giving viewers a gala time. 90s-themed sketches, like one featuring “SNL” creator Lorne Michaels, got some major laughs. Her second hosting appearance was marked by jolly good fun, too, and had her unforgettable characters Jeannie Darcy and Sally O’Malley making a comeback. Molly Shannon never disappoints.

#42: Rami Malek

The Oscar winner’s inaugural turn as an “SNL” host in 2021 was delightfully charming, filled with laughter and priceless impressions. He delivered his monologue with natural ease, riffing on misunderstood villains, teasing a switcheroo with his twin brother, and flexing his Oscar. Then came the sketches – banger after banger. From coupling up with Aidy Bryant in “Mattress Store” to impersonating Prince, Rami never missed. As a bonus, we got Pete Davidson and Rami playing each other in “Celeb School Game Show”, which made even Kenan Thompson break. What more could we ask for?

#41: Kristen Stewart

When the “Twilight” actress stepped into the role of an “SNL” host for the first time in 2017, she was understandably nervous. Still, she exuded that cool girl aura we’ve come to associate with Kristen. Her monologue famously featured an accidental f-bomb, after which she vowed never to return. Yet, return she did, in 2019, and she was somehow even cooler! This time, she did a reverse audience questions monologue, setting the tone for a killer episode. During both of her turns, she delivered some top-tier sketches. Some fan favorites include her Totino’s sketch that turns into a WLW fantasy and “Duolingo for Talking to Children”. Her dynamic with the rest of the cast was thoroughly enjoyable and left us wanting more.

#40: Ayo Edebiri

In recent years, “The Bear” star has risen to the status of a Hollywood darling. However, her roots are in comedy, which served her well during her first-ever “SNL” hosting gig in 2024. The opportunity was quite literally a ‘dream come true’ for her. So, she couldn’t help but choke up while speaking about a young Ayo’s “SNL” aspirations during her monologue. With those precious emotions out of the way, a night of side-splitting sketches commenced. As expected from the Emmy winner, she brought her A-game, leaving us with instant hits like “Trivia Quest” and “Bad Couples”. Judging from her performance, she’ll probably be returning to Studio 8H again in the future.

#39: Paul Mescal

La La Land’s golden boy rose to fame through serious roles, such as Connell Waldron in “Normal People” and Calum Patterson in “Aftersun”. That’s why watching him tackle live comedy was exceptionally fulfilling. He hosted “SNL” in 2024, and right from the get-go, he was just over the moon to be there. He vibed with the cast, enchanted viewers with his charisma, and caught us off guard with some unexpectedly funny sketches like “Gladiator II: The Musical”. His turn was also supported by cameos from David Spade, Dana Carvey, and Trisha Paytas – names we never thought we’d say in the same breath. Overall, the episode was a joyride.

#38: Timothée Chalamet

The two-time Oscar nominee’s filmography is a testament to his range. The man isn’t a stranger to comedy. The fact that he is also genuinely funny IRL makes him a natural at hosting “SNL”. No wonder they gave him the role thrice. His debut in December 2020 held personal significance for the actor, whose mother once did background work on the show. The holiday spirit was in the air, and so was COVID-19, but the episode brought some much-needed levity through sketches like “Rap Roundtable” and “Sportsmax”. When he returned as a host in 2023, he brought back his “Rap Roundtable” character, clearly by popular demand. That said, his double-duty appearance in 2025, with chaotic acts like “Grandma's Birthday” and “Bungee”, was undoubtedly his best.

#37: Ariana Grande

Singer, actress, businesswoman – Ari is a triple threat if we’ve ever seen one. After she debuted as an “SNL” host in 2016, while also performing as a musical guest, fans added comedienne to that list of titles. Sure, she had comedy experience from “Victorious”, but no one expected her to be a master impressionist. From Britney Spears to Jennifer Lawrence, Grande’s impersonations on “SNL” were spot-on! She came back as a host in 2024, achieving even greater success. Her acting skills had grown by leaps and bounds, and her comedic timing was impeccable. Sketches like “Charades with Mom”, “Castrati”, and “Domingo: Bridesmaid Speech” went viral. The Grammy winner had fans wrapped around her finger.

#36: Quinta Brunson

The “Abbott Elementary” creator first hosted “SNL” when her star was rising in 2023. She returned in 2025, with her career at an all-time high. As one of the most promising new faces of comedy in Hollywood, both her turns as an “SNL” host were picture-perfect. Her monologues were exceptionally well-written, and sketches like “Bridesmaid Cult Documentary” and “Traffic Altercation” – which she did another version of in 2025 – killed. From starring on “Abbott Elementary”, Brunson knows how to shine with an ensemble cast. So, her chemistry with the rest of the players in both her episodes was on point. What’s not to love?

#35: Megan Thee Stallion

Another double-duty queen, the Hot Girl Coach went all gas, no brakes, hosting “SNL” in 2022. The rapper is well-known for her comedy chops. Her punchlines hit as hard as her bars, and her stage presence is incomparable. The show made wonderful use of these qualities, giving her sketches that tapped into her fierce energy and innate charm. From “Classroom” to “Hot Girl Hospital” and “Girl Talk”, the acts of the night were right up Megan’s alley. Of course, her musical performances were power-packed too. We almost wish the episode were longer!

#34: Jimmy Fallon

The “SNL” legend hosted the show three times after his departure as a cast member in 2004. Two of those times, in 2011 and 2013, won him Emmys. For the former, he revived the “Boston Teens” sketch with Amy Poehler and Rachel Dratch, much to the audience’s joy. Andy Samberg also got to do his Fallon impression in front of him in “Dressing Room”. Some highlights from his 2013 turn include his Jim Parsons and Michael Bublé impressions, as well as “The Barry Gibb Talk Show” making a comeback. His 2017 appearance, although not award-winning, was a riot nonetheless, especially the “Take Me Back” sketch. Interestingly, all three of his monologues had musical elements, and they were well-executed, too! Jimmy’s always a reliable host.

#33: Tiffany Haddish

In 2017, the “Girls Trip” actress became the first-ever black stand-up comedienne to host SNL. Her performance on the historic night was so acclaimed that she even took home an Emmy for it. With her boundless energy and comedic flair, Tiffany Haddish drove the show to major highs. Her monologue went from personal to political and was sincere without being dull. However, the sketches were where she excelled. From her Mary J. Blige impression for a “Lion King” audition to pairing up with Kate McKinnon for a “Whiskers R We” sketch, Tiff had us rolling on the floor laughing.

#32: Jonah Hill

From dreaming about writing for “SNL” to helming the show five times – the “Superbad” actor has come a long way. After debuting as a host on the Studio 8H stage in 2008, he returned in 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2018. Each time, he lived up to fans’ sky-high expectations. It wasn’t that the episodes were perfect. In fact, Hill had some fumbles during his first monologue. He also hilariously broke character in some of his sketches through the years. Still, his commitment to his characters, like six-year-old Adam Grossman and Keith from “Inside SoCal”, gave us some real knee-slappers. We also got a Leonardo DiCaprio cameo during his 2014 turn! Hill sure knows how to put on a show.

#31: Scarlett Johansson

ScarJo is out here collecting “SNL” hosting gigs like Infinity Stones. “The Avengers” star has fronted the show a whopping seven times from 2006 to 2025, and is the only female celebrity to achieve this milestone. Thanks to her experience, she gels with the players like she has always been one of them. Some of the most memorable “SNL” moments that you’ll find in virtually every ‘best of’ compilation come from Johansson’s episodes. Sketches like “MTV: Maternity Television”, “Shud the Mermaid”, and “Victorian Ladies at Lunch” live in our heads rent-free. Besides, her husband being “SNL”’s very own Colin Jost, ​has made for some colorful material in recent years. Scarlett Johansson and “SNL” is a match made in comedy heaven.

#30: Nate Bargatze

Some celebrities need a few appearances to find their groove hosting “SNL,” but for Nate Bargatze, it was magic at first try. The Tennessee-born comedian made his hosting debut during the 49th season and seemed right at home from the get-go. His opening monologue, brimming with his signature wry humor, set the perfect tone for the evening. However, the highlight of the night was undoubtedly Bargatze as George Washington, reminding his soldiers of the true purpose of the war: the freedom to choose their own system of weights and measurements. He was equally brilliant in subsequent sketches, portraying a small-town serial killer and a country band singer. If we didn’t know any better, we’d think Bargatze was already a Five-Timer.

#29: Phoebe Waller-Bridge

Is there anything Phoebe Waller-Bridge cannot do? We highly doubt it. The Emmy-winning actress, writer and producer showcased her comedy chops in a 2019 episode, proving that she was more than just her “Fleabag” character. Like a great host should, Waller-Bridge took center stage in various sketches, delivering a mishmash of accents in the “Love Island” spoof and embodying the wife character in the recurring “War in Words” segment. Perhaps the standout of the night was “Mid-Day News,” in which Waller-Bridge played a local newscaster drawn into a race-based competition against her colleagues. Despite her charm and comedic might, Waller-Bridge never overpowers the cast. Instead, she seamlessly blends in, affirming her status as one of Hollywood’s most in-demand talents.

#28: Natalie Portman

It’s always interesting to see how dramatic actors fare on “SNL.” Judging from her two stints so far this century, it’s a walk in the park for Natalie Portman. The Oscar winner first graced the stage in 2006, following the “Star Wars” prequel trilogy. True to form, Portman commits to every sketch she’s in, delivering the iconic “Natalie Raps” song to hilarious effect. She returned 12 years later, this time upping the ante for a sequel rap that achieved the impossible task of outshining the original song. Beyond the raps, Portman resurrects her award-winning role as Jackie Kennedy, and delivers laughs opposite “SNL” veterans like Tina Fey and Rachel Dratch in the “Revolutionary War” sketch. We eagerly await her third showing.

#27: Chance the Rapper

After appearing as a musical guest in 2015, Chance the Rapper was brought on to host an episode two years later. Despite his lack of acting or comedy experience, Chance sinks his teeth into the material and runs away with it. He lends his music chops to the “Come Back, Barack” sketch and delivers a hilarious performance as the fictional illegitimate son of Steve Harvey. In 2019, Chance made yet another return to the Studio 8H stage, this time serving double duty as host and musical guest. Although not as impressive as his first showing, the rapper more than pulls his weight, resurrecting the sports announcer character from his previous appearance and debuting the evergreen Judge Barry.

#26: Eddie Murphy

It’s no news that Eddie Murphy helped revitalize “Saturday Night Live” when he joined the show in 1980. Remarkably, he hosted an episode while still part of the cast. After a second hosting stint in 1984, Murphy stayed away from the show for more than three decades until his triumphant return in 2019. Fans rejoiced as Murphy revived beloved characters such as Buckwheat, Gumby and Mr. Robinson. While these appearances tapped into nostalgia, they also brought fresh perspectives by reimagining them in modern-day situations. Additionally, Murphy introduced new characters, and participated in the iconic “Black Jeopardy” segment. While his “SNL” legacy was already solidified, this appearance only proved that despite his lengthy absence, Studio 8H will always remain Eddie Murphy’s home.

#25: Pedro Pascal

2023 was a great year for Pedro Pascal. He not only reprised his leading role in “The Mandalorian,” but also gained widespread acclaim for his performance in HBO’s “The Last of Us.” Hot on the heels of that show’s premiere, Pascal made his debut on the “SNL” stage, hosting the 12th episode of season 48. Pascal gives his all to the sketches, elevating moderately funny material to uproarious heights. His versatility shines through, as the writers throw him into various characters, from an irresistible teacher to a highly critical mother to a flirty waiter. And he excels in each one. Even the Mario Kart sketch wouldn’t be the same without him. If Pascal hadn’t considered full-time comedy acting before, he definitely should now.

#24: Betty White

It’s quite shocking that Betty White didn’t host “SNL” more than once. She was a celebrated actress and comedian, best known for her role in the beloved sitcom “The Golden Girls.” In 2010, fans launched a successful online campaign to have the then 88-year-old White host an episode of “SNL,” making her the oldest person to do so. Unlike most episodes, this one was exceptional from beginning to end. White pushed herself to excel in every sketch, drawing huge laughs as the convict grandma Loretta, and winning hearts with her cat lady in the “Census Taker” sketch. It’s no surprise that she won an Emmy for this episode, but more importantly, she created lasting memories for us all to cherish.

#23: Jon Hamm

Jon Hamm rose to fame playing the lead role in the intense period drama “Mad Men.” In 2008, he stunned audiences with his comedic prowess when he hosted an episode of “SNL.” Hamm’s incredible comedic timing and his willingness to poke fun at himself and his iconic character, made this episode one of the season’s highlights. Such was the acclaim that Hamm returned to host twice in 2010. During these appearances, the actor did less of the obligatory “Mad Men” spoofs, instead lending his comedic skills to silly premises and delivering brilliant impressions of JFK and Robin Williams. There’s no doubt that just like Don Draper, Hamm can market anything. And with his “SNL” hosting stints, we’re completely sold.

#22: Donald Glover

Would it surprise you to know that Donald Glover auditioned for “SNL” twice but was rejected? Well, judging by his hosting performance, the show clearly missed out on an exceptional talent. In the episode, Glover brings his extensive comedy background to the forefront. He boasts of his remarkable resume in his monologue, and proceeds to demonstrate all of those talents in the subsequent sketches. Whether he’s playing a lawyer for Jurassic World or a troubled intern at Mattel, Glover takes charge of each sketch, delivering one hit after another. He also displayed his prowess on the mic, serving as musical guest with his alter ego Childish Gambino, and giving us not just one, but two music video parodies.

#21: Jim Carrey

Speaking of exceptional performers who were turned down by “SNL,” Jim Carrey auditioned three times but was rejected at every turn. Despite this setback, he forged a successful film career and returned to host “SNL” twice in the 2010s. Carrey seamlessly integrates with the cast, while still commanding attention as host. Known for his incomparable impressions, Carrey’s turn as Matthew McConaughey is eerily accurate, as is his portrayal of a ballerina in the “Black Swan” spoof. But the only thing better than one Carrey is the entire Carrey family turning up for a reunion. With such great showings as host, one can only imagine the comedic brilliance Carrey would have brought as a cast member.

#20: Zach Galifianakis

Galifianakis auditioned to become an “SNL” cast member in 1999. While he didn’t make the cut, Galifianakis did land a gig as an “SNL” writer… which lasted for only two weeks. About a decade after his brief “SNL” stint, Galifianakis hit the big time with his scene-stealing work in “The Hangover.” Now in high demand, Galifianakis returned to host “SNL” three times, earning an Emmy nomination in the process. As a host, Galifianakis’ signature offbeat awkwardness is on full display, especially during his monologues. “SNL” has also given Galifianakis a chance to show off his musical talents, playing the piano and channeling his inner Little Orphan Annie. Also, few hosts have donned a wider wardrobe of ridiculous costumes, from a dragon to an M&M.

#19: Ryan Gosling

While best-known for his dramatic roles, Ryan Gosling has showcased strong comedic chops in “Lars and the Real Girl,” “The Nice Guys,” and his multiple times hosting “SNL.” As if he wasn’t versatile enough, Gosling is also a gifted singer and musician, even if he didn’t “save jazz.” During his “SNL” appearances, Gosling has played a man obsessed with papyrus font and an adult who still firmly believes in Santa Claus. As silly as that all sounds, what makes these sketches so funny is how seriously and intensely Gosling approaches the roles. Although Gosling frequently plays cool, straight-faced characters, he couldn’t help but crack up during the infamous “Close Encounter” sketch. Of course, if anyone can make character breaking look cool, it’s Gosling.

#18: Emma Stone

From one “La La Land” star to another! Emma Stone is married to former “SNL” segment director Dave McCary, but before they tied the knot in 2020, the Oscar-winning actress hosted four times over the course of ten years. The “SNL” writers have drawn inspiration from the movies that made Stone a star, including “Superbad” and “The Amazing Spider-Man.” They’ve also taken full advantage of Stone’s musical background in sketches like “I Broke My Arm” and “The Christmas Candle.” In a sketch called “The Actress,” Stone plays a struggling performer who takes a bit part in an adult film. And she’s determined to bring depth to her character. Likewise, Stone always goes above and beyond on “SNL,” no matter who she’s playing.

#17: Paul Rudd

The world knows him as Ant-Man, but on “SNL,” Paul Rudd’s most memorable character is Austin Vogelcheck. Although Austin seems like an average Joe, his family can get a little too close for comfort. As uncomfortable as the “Kissing Family” sketches can get, Rudd remains his usual charming, composed self throughout. Rudd’s other personalities include a loudmouthed pizza boy, an avid Showtime subscriber, and multiple characters in “White Christmas.” Rudd even reunited with his “Anchorman” news team in 2013. Will Ferrell, David Koechner, and Steve Carell joined Rudd, as well as One Direction, for a rendition of “Afternoon Delight.” Ferrell and Koechner would stick around to grab a drink with Rudd, Taran Killam, and Kenan Thompson… at Chuck E. Cheese.

#16: John Mulaney

Although he was never a cast member, John Mulaney served as a writer on “SNL” for four years. During that time, he made many contributions to “Weekend Update,” most notably co-creating Stefon with Bill Hader. Since leaving “SNL,” Mulaney has returned to host multiple times, scoring a guest acting Emmy nomination in 2019. Mulaney typically kicks things off with his standup, as that’s his area of expertise. When he hosted for the first time in 2018, Mulaney was given the opportunity to dig up an old sketch that had been rejected during his days on the writing staff: “Diner Lobster.” The bizarre musical sketch became an unlikely fan favorite, inspiring more Broadway parodies that’d take Mulaney to a bodega bathroom, the airport and a souvenir shop fitting room.

#15: Will Ferrell

For seven years, Will Ferrell was arguably the MVP on “SNL,” breathing new life into the struggling sketch series. Ferrell was missed when he left in 2002, but he’d go on to join the Five-Timers Club. Ferrell brings his trademark over-the-top energy to every monologue, whether he’s paying tribute to mothers, showing off his dramatic side, or getting starstruck by Ryan Reynolds. Unfortunately, Ferrell forgot all about his tenure at “SNL” following a head injury. It’ll take more than a steel beam, however, to make us forget about Ferrell’s most memorable “SNL” moments. Hosting has allowed Ferrell to revisit some of his best impressions. He returned to “Celebrity Jeopardy” as Alex Trebek and in 2018, addressed the nation again as George W. Bush.

#14: Kristen Wiig

Throughout her seven years as a cast member, Kristen Wiig racked up four Emmy nominations. Wiig would later add several more nominations to her résumé for hosting “SNL.” Wiig’s hosting appearances are not only hilarious, but educational as well. Who knew that Ben Franklin and Vikings were at the first Thanksgiving! That same episode saw the return of Sue the Surprise Lady, whose excitement for a Thanksgiving reunion can’t be contained. Wiig notably hosted the finale of “Saturday Night Live at Home,” which aired during the pandemic. With her monologue, Wiig brought her unmatched eccentricity while also working in a few sincere words. Her screen time that night wasn’t limited to the opening, as Wiig gave some helpful hair tips to everyone else in quarantine.

#13: Bill Hader

Alongside Wiig, Bill Hader joined “SNL” in 2005 and quickly established himself as a comedic force. He received two Emmy nominations as a cast member and two more when he came back to host. The first time, Hader got to fulfill his dream of singing on “SNL” with some backup from Wiig and Harvey Fierstein. The second time around, he resurrected a few classic characters. Hader was so eager to get back onto the “The Californians” set that he changed into his Devin outfit mid-monologue. Stefon returned to Weekend Update and once again, Hader had a hard time concealing his laughter. Hader’s knack for celebrity impersonations was put to effective use as well, inserting Alan Alda, Al Pacino, and Clint Eastwood into “Jurassic Park.”

#12: Melissa McCarthy

Melissa McCarthy has appeared on “SNL” so many times that it’s easy to forget that she was never a regular. She’s hosted five times and has repeatedly popped up as former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer. Every time she’s hosted, McCarthy has been nominated for a guest acting Emmy, winning once in 2017. It was McCarthy’s iconic turn as Spicer that arguably got her the gold, but that’s far from her only memorable contribution. As is the case with her film roles, McCarthy throws herself into every sketch… sometimes quite literally. Her powerful line delivery, physical comedy expertise, and willingness to go all out make McCarthy a natural fit for the “SNL” stage. Our only complaint is that “Supermarket Spree” was cut for time.

#11: John Goodman

Like McCarthy, John Goodman could be mistaken for an official “SNL” player. Despite an unsuccessful audition to join the cast, Goodman went on to host thirteen times and portrayed Linda Tripp throughout the Clinton–Lewinsky scandal. So far this century, Goodman’s hosted three times. In Goodman’s 2000 monologue, he addressed his struggles with alcohol use disorder, as well as his absence from “The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas.” Goodman hosted again in 2001, doing a dead-on Wilford Brimley impression, but took a hiatus of twelve years after that. Goodman delivered with his long-awaited homecoming, sharing a duet with Kenan, sharing a mouthful with Kate McKinnon, and sharing the stage with a few fellow snowflakes. He also brought the laughs as Drunker Uncle, although Goodman’s been sober since 2007.

#10: Steve Martin

Steven Martin might very well be the best host in “SNL” history. While Martin has hosted sixteen times overall, only three of those episodes aired in the past 20 years, hence why he’s not even higher on this list. With these appearances, however, Martin reminded audiences why he’s one of the all-time greats. In 2006, Martin opened the show by defending his title from Alec Baldwin. Despite getting thrown out a window, Baldwin would eventually surpass Martin’s record for most times hosting “SNL.” Maybe Martin would’ve hosted more times if Lorne Michaels gave him more money. When it comes to class, sarcasm, and timing, though, Martin will always be hard to top, even when he’s sharing the hosting gig with his pal Martin Short.

#9: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

The Rock is one of the biggest movie stars on the planet, but back in 2000, he was primarily known as a professional wrestler. Hosting “SNL” for the first time, Johnson demonstrated that he had real acting and comedic potential, which only became more apparent in the years to come. In between headlining numerous blockbusters, Johnson found the time to join the Five-Timers Club. Over the years, his self-aware macho persona has been impeccably utilized in sketches like the gritty “Bambi” remake. Speaking of fake movies we desperately want to see, when is the Rock going to star in “Gosford Park 2” already? “SNL” has also provided a platform for one of Johnson’s best characters, The Rock Obama. Could that be foreshadowing The Rock Administration?

#8: Adam Driver

We all associate “SNL” with quality comedy, but Adam Driver proves that it can also be a great showcase for acting. Take “Career Day” for example. If you didn’t already know that Driver was hosting, you probably wouldn’t recognize him under that decrepit makeup, devious voice, and domineering demeanor. Driver is just that talented of an actor. Whereas a lot of “SNL” hosts essentially play themselves in each sketch, Driver has transformed himself into a frustrated science professor, a Southern cheerleader coach, and a medieval times restaurant actor who takes his role a little too seriously. Of course, Kylo Ren is the most famous character in Driver’s filmography, and he helped make “Undercover Boss: Starkiller Base” one of the best “Star Wars” parodies ever.

#7: Dave Chappelle

Following a lengthy absence from the mainstream comedy scene, Dave Chappelle staged a comeback that culminated with an Emmy-winning “SNL” guest spot. Aside from bringing back several “Chappelle’s Show” characters, the episode was notable for airing the Saturday after Donald Trump won the 2016 U.S. presidential election. At an especially uncertain time, Chappelle made audiences laugh and think with his poignant monologue. The “Election Night” sketch featuring Chappelle and Chris Rock also perfectly captured the moment. Chappelle returned four years later on the same Saturday that many outlets officially declared Joe Biden had defeated Trump in the 2020 election. In addition to politics, Chappelle provided clever commentary on COVID-19, race relations, and the state of America, again giving us exactly what we needed.

#6: Drew Barrymore

Barrymore hosted in 1982 at the ripe age of seven and again in 1999 during her 20s. She’s hosted on four additional occasions this century, bringing her total to six. Becoming the second woman to host five times, Barrymore has more than left her mark on “SNL.” If that’s not enough evidence, look no further than her priceless impressions of Sharon Osbourne, and fellow child star Abigail Breslin. On a side note, Barrymore approves of Chloe Fineman’s spot-on impression of her! Outside of celebrity impersonations, Barrymore’s vocal talents have given us original characters like Barbara Hernandez. Gilly has also met her Italian equal in Barrymore’s Gigli. This actress has come a long way since “E.T.”... and apparently “Star Wars” and “Poltergeist”...

#5: Christopher Walken

Few hosts have given us a wider array of memorable “SNL” characters than Christopher Walken. There are recurring characters like the Continental, who we like to watch with a nice glass of “champagna.” Even characters who only appeared in one sketch have achieved legendary status. Walken’s Bruce Dickinson delivered what might be the most quotable line in “SNL” history: “More Cowbell.” Then there’s Colonel Angus, who’s infamous for… well, his name speaks for itself. What makes Walken such a fun host is his unusual delivery, spinning the most basic lines into comedic gold. He’s the kind of actor who can mess up on live television and still get a huge laugh. Several “SNL” members can do a good Walken impression, but nothing beats the real deal.

#4: Justin Timberlake

After Justin Timberlake went solo, a lot of critics had a hard time getting past his boy band days. For many, it was Timberlake’s appearances on “SNL” that finally won them over. On his way into the Five-Timers Club, Timberlake proved that he can not only sing, but deliver the laughs as well. The charismatic performer has developed a few unforgettable characters, such as the dancing mascot and Peg from Target. Of course, it’s Timberlake’s collaborations with Andy Samberg that’s solidified his status as an “SNL” all-star. What started as a song about a naughty Christmas present inspired a trilogy about motherly love and the golden rule of three. Timberlake’s won four Emmys for his work on “SNL,” two of which were for guest acting.

#3: Tina Fey

Shortly after becoming the show’s first female head writer, Tina Fey started getting in front of the camera as an “SNL” regular. So, when Fey returned to host in 2008, it was as if she had never left. Still, that didn’t stop Steve Martin from giving her a few pointers. While Fey was best-known for “Weekend Update” during her years as a cast member, hosting has given her the chance to really cut loose. She’s played a teacher infatuated with Justin Bieber and a would-be “Mean Girls” cast member. Fey’s sporadic cameos as Sarah Palin have only added to her “SNL” legacy. There’s only one thing better than Fey hosting alone: Fey hosting with her old “Weekend Update” co-anchor Amy Poehler.

#2: Alec Baldwin

As of writing, nobody has hosted “SNL” more times than Alec Baldwin, who’s taken center stage on 17 occasions. Baldwin shattered the record this century and not even Steve Martin could stop him. He commemorated his 17th time with a trip down memory lane and while Baldwin got visibly older since 1990, this actor ages like a fine wine. It’s hard to top Pete Schweddy, but Baldwin has played plenty of memorable “SNL” characters these past two decades. He’s gotten close with a couple of “Love-Ahs,” put a Christmas twist on his “Glengarry Glen Ross” character, and rocked out as the fourth Jonas Brother. Even if you ignored all the episodes Baldwin hosted, his Emmy-winning turn as Donald Trump would still secure his “SNL” legacy.

#1: Tom Hanks

This Oscar winner has hosted ten times and while only three of those episodes debuted this century, they contained many of his best bits. Some of them even rank up there with the funniest “SNL” sketches of the past twenty years. The one that immediately comes to mind is “Haunted Elevator,” which introduced the world to a new Halloween icon in David S. Pumpkins. Hanks shined once again as an unlikely contestant on “Black Jeopardy.” Hanks was also the first host of “SNL at Home,” a fitting choice since he was one of the first household names to be diagnosed with COVID-19. It was comforting to see America’s Dad recovered and ready to make the world laugh during such a difficult time.

Which “SNL” host do you think is the most underrated? Tell us in the comments!