Top 10 Hilarious SNL Impressions That NEVER Break Character

Not only are they distant cousins, but these two are also linked in a comedic way. Larry David’s impersonation is impressive while being a fun remix of the politician. With the ability to use elements of his personal and professional life, David blends his public persona, his “Curb” character, and political jokes all into one guy. He can do it in such a casual way without losing sight of the great writing. The comedian is so comfortable doing the impression that he easily blends into every debate skit. At some points, you might forget that it’s not the real senator with the actor’s locked-in performance.

Poking fun at the action star, Andy Samberg took his life into his own hands here. He decided to put the actor next to animals for a hilarious sketch. Along with getting laughs, Samberg stays focused as he delivers greetings to barnyard creatures. It even prompted Mark Wahlberg to confront Samberg on an episode of “SNL.” With the real man making a cameo, the comedian once again holds his own in a ridiculous encounter. The Lonely Island performer gives his all to an impersonation that’s both simple and goofy in the best possible way. He gave the same kind of passion to his take on Nicolas Cage, going head-to-head with another cinematic powerhouse.

While playing the host of “Family Feud,” Kenan Thompson has to deal with so many oddball contestants. He also has a hilarious running commentary. All the while, the “SNL” veteran remains a consummate professional. Thompson does a fantastic send-up of Steve Harvey’s high energy and constant ad-libs. While up against eccentric celebs, this version of the host never fails to entertain with a quick joke. It’s a tricky role that the comedian juggles without any struggle. In a long list of memorable characters, this comedy pro knows his way around a game show sketch.

In a wide variety of sketches, Kate McKinnon developed her own unique take on Hillary Clinton. It demanded a wide mix of acting and comedic talent to pull off. Throughout all of these scenes, the actress pushes this character to the limit. She can be subtle, wild, and even sing songs with supreme confidence. McKinnon always plays into the impersonation with a bit of desperation. With all the comic exaggeration going on, the performer remains calm against Alec Baldwin’s Donald Trump. The 2016 election cycle would not have been the same without the comedian’s pointed and reliable work.

Taking a big swing, Melissa McCarthy bounces off the wall as the White House Press Secretary. It’s a hilarious take full of outrageous lines and physical comedy. McCarthy revs up to stratospheric levels of energy, never stopping on her way to comedic glory. Facing down the press and using plenty of props, the comedian takes her exaggerated role as seriously as an Oscar-winning drama. This kind of intensity makes for even more enjoyable skits that never include any breaks. She turns her version of Spicer into a violent man who messes with reporters in absurd ways. Nothing phases the “Bridesmaids” star as she flies through each scene like a veteran with no mistakes.

For one of his greatest impressions, Darrell Hammond busts out a Scottish accent. The result is one of the highlights of the “Celebrity Jeopardy!” sketches. The comedian’s character stops at nothing to make fun of Alex Trebek, saying the most ridiculous put-downs ever. With all of the insane jokes, a lesser performer might trip up over the dialogue. Hammond is a rare comic actor who completely disappears into a role and catches anything writers throw at him. You’re amazed that the fights between Connery and Will Ferrell’s Trebek don’t cause more laughs amongst the co-stars. On the other hand, this verbal standoff between two unflinching comedians makes for A-plus work.

As one of the finest impersonators in “SNL” history, Dana Carvey gives Ross Perot as much time and attention as any of his other caricatures. This version of the Southern politician strikes at the heart of his entertaining personality. Carvey is able to say anything as Perot, but he’s also careful not to mess up any of these wonderful stories or metaphors. His many scenes work best when he can get all of the intricate dialogue out for the audience to hear. If the comedian lost it at any moment, the intricate writing and political satire would be lost. This makes this kind of impression a tightrope walk that the performer executes with tremendous skill.

You don’t need to know anything about this sports broadcaster to enjoy Will Ferrell’s impression of him. In fact, the impersonation flies in the face of convention and logic at almost every turn. Ferrell’s version of Caray hosts a science show and talks with an incredible voice. He even finds ways to break up his guests. Opposite the likes of Jeff Goldblum, the cast member can stay in character despite his scene partner’s reactions. It’s a magnificent feat to watch the comedian embody such a silly part, get big laughs, and do it all with absolute dedication. We’re not sure how well we would hold up under the same circumstances.

Among the more famous impressions of the 2008 election season, Tina Fey’s take on Sarah Palin might be one of her most popular characters. She turns the VP candidate’s personality into comedic gold. All the while, Tina Fey throws her all into every single script. The actress has a perfect and natural way of delivering funny lines without breaking. It’s always entertaining to watch Fey’s impersonation of the Alaskan governor, giving knockout performances whenever she appears. There was even a time when the real politician showed up, but it didn’t stop the comedian from nailing the sketch. With that episode in mind, it’s even more amazing that she’s never lost control.

As one of the more recent Donald Trump impersonators, James Austin Johnson had his work cut out for him. He more than delivers in one of the more accurate versions of the politician. Despite all of the rants and ravings, Johnson’s take never seems to break character. The comedian stays serious while saying some of the goofiest lines any political leader could say. His Trump loves to ramble about pop culture and his many rivals, but nothing seems to trip up the gifted performer. The comedian creates such a strong impression that not even a muscle suit or Dana Carvey’s Joe Biden can faze him.


Did we forget another impersonator who stayed in character? Let us know in the comments below.