5 SNL Impressions That Work Because They're Accurate & 5 That Work Because They're Hilarious

5 SNL Impressions That Work Because They’re Accurate and 5 That Work Just Because They’re Hilarious


Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for five of the most accurate impersonations on “SNL” and five that were just plain entertaining.

#5 Accurate: Darrell Hammond as Bill Clinton

As one of the most talented impressionists in “SNL” history, Darrell Hammond gave his all to many political roles. This included his exceptional take on Bill Clinton. The comedian finds the former president’s voice and mannerisms, letting subtle movements influence funny scenes. This includes biting his lip and using his thumb to great effect. Following Phil Hartman’s fun impression, Hammond proves himself with a precise performance of the political leader. He also works well with all of the comedic situations that surrounded Clinton’s presidency. Even when he’s talking with Monica Lewinsky or Saddam Hussein, this version of the character remains an accurate parody of the man.

#5 Hilarious: Andy Samberg as Nicolas Cage

This actor may or may not be known for his bold choices in a storied career. Andy Samberg takes this as inspiration and then pushes it to the limit, playing Nicolas Cage in a “Weekend Update” skit that lampoons the star. This wacky segment lets Samberg’s impression make fun of the target’s career, voice, and even his hairline. It’s such an over-the-top impersonation that the idea attracted Cage himself. Appearing alongside the comedian, the real guy was inspired to poke at his own persona and the cast member’s outrageous performance. The “SNL” cast member employs movie references and some comic exaggeration to help get the point across.

#4 Accurate: Martin Short as Larry David

In this parody of a Charlie Brown story, “SNL” casts Larry David as Linus. Martin Short assumes the role with the believability of a true master. He finds a way into the curmudgeonly personality, getting laughs while fighting with the Al Pacino remix of Brown. It’s an absurd concept grounded by Short’s ability to mimic the comedian's voice and cadence. Seeing the man in such a childlike environment only adds to the hilarity. You even get to see this version of David bleeped out in a tense conversation. There’s also a catchphrase to end it all, adding to this hilarious performance.

#4 Hilarious: Melissa McCarthy as Sean Spicer

Sometimes you have to hand it to “SNL” for their unlikely casting decisions. The former White House Press Secretary does not share any notable resemblance or personality traits with Melissa McCarthy. The film actress does make this a memorable portrayal, however, choosing to turn the character into a comic fireball. This Sean Spicer impression becomes an easily annoyed man fighting with reporters about anything and everything. This includes some fun prop comedy and some physical confrontations with the press corps. McCarthy makes use of the space, playing comedic rage in a wild interpretation of the actual person.

#3 Accurate: James Austin Johnson as Donald Trump

Of all the people who played Donald Trump on “SNL,” James Austin Johnson might have the closest impression of them all. He’s able to tune into the politician’s speech patterns, turning a recognizable voice into several meandering rants. Johnson doesn’t need to yell and scream to transform either. The comedian can reproduce small details about the president, stealing away sketches with an eccentric delivery. His Trump keeps the audience on their toes, bringing up random topics and references at a lightning pace. The cast member didn’t take long to establish himself as a vital asset with this impersonation.

#3 Hilarious: Chevy Chase as Gerald Ford

If you know Gerald Ford, you know he looks nothing like Chevy Chase. This didn’t stop the original cast member from delivering a funny impression. Chase decided to avoid any kind of vocal change or prosthetics, opting to create the clumsiest character ever instead. The impersonation focused on physical gags that put the performer at risk. Unafraid to make a fool of himself, the comedian played a version of Ford that makes falling an art form. This comical take on the president often fumbled over simple lines or with various props. Chase became a star because of work like this, revealing his knack for comic timing.

#2 Accurate: Maya Rudolph as Kamala Harris

For the 2020 election cycle, Maya Rudolph stepped up to become then-Senator Kamala Harris. Her debut as the character captured the spirit of the politician and featured multiple gags about social media. Rudolph then came back to play the Vice President and presidential candidate, reminding everyone of her sketch comedy skills. The performer disappears into the political leader at both campaign events and opposite Andy Samberg’s Doug Emhoff. She perfected the voice and delivery of the real woman, making great strides with every new appearance. Her work with other talented comedians like Dana Carvey allowed her to shine with awesome scene partners.

#2 Hilarious: Gilda Radner as Barbara Walters

As a member of the first “SNL” cast, Gilda Radner burned bright through her impressions and original parts. Her memorable take on Barbara Walters (Baba Wawa) interviews notable figures with a notable twist. The sketches also include comic swipes at the real woman’s voice. It’s so silly that it transcends reality at several points, making you question what the character says half the time. This only becomes more hilarious as Radner’s impersonation goes up against the likes of Madeline Kahn’s Marlene Dietrich. With her lovable presence coming through, the cast member uses her every line of dialogue to create an eccentric version of the journalist.

#1 Accurate: Sarah Palin as Tina Fey

Some roles on “SNL” are just meant to be. This one seemed as if the stars aligned for Tina Fey. Returning to the show as a guest actress, the comedian gave one of the definitive impersonations of Sarah Palin. The performer’s hair, glasses, and vocal work all add up to a near-perfect impression. Fey conquers sketches by almost entering into a trance, mimicking the governor’s accent and personality. It’s a wonder to watch the former cast member command scenes with her fantastic performance. Working alongside people like Amy Poehler, she gives a tremendous performance that’s nothing short of accurate and hilarious.

#1 Hilarious: Darrell Hammond as Sean Connery

This performer can serve up an accurate impersonation, he can also have fun with more outlandish characters. His version of Sean Connery is one example of a role that lets him be the latter. Hammond frequently feels the show on “Celebrity Jeopardy!,” tormenting Will Ferrell’s version of Alex Trebek with all kinds of unsavory remarks. This leads to a combative relationship between a contestant and host that’s among the most iconic elements of this recurring “SNL” skit. The comedian turns the Scotsman into an evil villain that’s unpredictable and super funny. You can’t take your eyes off him as you anticipate his next joke. He might not sound exactly like the movie star, but he does get huge laughs anyway.

Which standout “SNL” impression did we forget? Let us know in the comments below.