Top 10 SNL Alumni Who Returned for Hilarious Skits

“Close Encounter Cold Open”
With Ryan Gosling returning to host, he joins former cast member Kate McKinnon for one of her best parts. The actress wastes no time in reminding people why this recurring sketch is so awesome. Ms. Rafferty once again delivers delightful stories about her encounters with the aliens, getting laughter from the audience and Gosling. She even uses the host for a live demonstration that lets her take some funny positions. McKinnon eases into the part like she never left, giving this amusing character such a quirky personality. She plays the role to perfection in a skit that should come back every season. When the performer hosted herself, she brought back one of her other fantastic characters from “Whiskers R We.”

“Sam Smith/Dr. Evil Cold Open”
While this sketch has an elaborate setup, it’s all a bait and switch for a surprise. Mike Myers returns to the show that made him famous with one of his most beloved characters. While his “Austin Powers” villain was written for the screen, Dr. Evil feels right at home in this scene. His evil scheming and hilarious observations fuel a monologue that could be right out of the film series. Talking about the Sony hacking scandal, Myers attaches his wit to a character that fits right into current events. He only needs to sit down and address the camera to earn laughs. Showing he can always disappear into a fun character, the actor lights up “SNL” in a fan-favorite role.

“It’s a Date”
How about a sketch with two veteran “SNL” players for the price of one? Not only that, this game show features two of the show’s most iconic duos. It’s an absurd scene that lets both the R&B duo and the Festrunk brothers run amok. After a while, you forget you’re watching a dating show and just want to hear more one-liners. Original cast member Dan Aykroyd can still swing as one-half of the wild and crazy siblings, bringing Steve Martin with him. On the other end, Andy Samberg returns with Justin Timberlake to sing ridiculous lyrics. The comedic tornado provides fun-filled gags for multiple generations of “Saturday Night Live” fans.

“Romano Tours”
Upon his return to “SNL,” Adam Sandler showed everyone that he can deliver on old and new characters. This particular sketch gives the actor a rare opportunity to showcase his subtle comedy chops. He advertises trips to Italy, but he emphasizes that he can’t prevent customers from being sad. It’s a hilarious turn that’s delivered in perfect deadpan from the comedian. Each new detail allows the comic to showcase his brilliant timing and amplifies the funny writing. Sandler not only shows that he’s a generational talent, but also reminds everyone of his versatility as a sketch performer.

“Kissing Family: Brecken Brings His Boyfriend Home”
When the Vogelchecks come together, there’s always one thing on the agenda. This affectionate group includes returning cast members such as Andy Samberg, Maya Rudolph, Kristen Wiig, Bill Hader, and Fred Armisen. It’s such a star-studded cast that even guest Paul Rudd is overshadowed by the iconic “SNL” ensemble. In an excuse to do some over-the-top comedy, the performers make out with each other in some hilarious moments. This culminates in a chain of kisses that hits a few of them laughing. It’s fun to watch them go crazy, but it’s even better knowing that the friends can still entertain each other during a performance.

“Super Showcase Spokesmodels”
The setup of this sketch is far less important than the payoff. Kristen Wiig and returning cast member Maya Rudolph play spokesmodels for a game show. In their attempts to show off prizes, both actresses crumble with each passing line. Wiig and Rudolph are perfectly paired here as chaotic presenters with amazing accents. Even Bill Hader can’t contain his laughter in a sketch that’s a four-alarm fire of hilarity. The host dodges a golf cart driven by her co-star in one of many highlights. Rudolph’s knack for funny voices and physical comedy really shine here along with the contagious laughter.

“Girlfriends Game Night”
As soon as Bill Hader enters his sketch, you know you’re in for a great time. His elderly character Horace is trying to get his partner pregnant at all costs. This prompts a wild scene where Cecily Strong has to sit on her co-star’s lap. If you’re not already laughing, you probably will be very soon. Hader operates a motorized chair himself and ends up running into the other cast members. The comedian’s performance is dedicated, but he also breaks down after making a funny mistake. The actor shows that he’s a welcome addition to any sketch regardless of whether or not he’s laughing through it.

“Cut for Time: Cast List”
In most cases, anytime Will Ferrell touches something, it turns to comedy gold. This sketch is one example of him brightening up yet another “SNL” skit. During this scene, the comedian plays a crazy theater director who loves to make students wait. His dramatic announcements keep the tension going and comedy at a high quality. The best part comes as Ferrell bumps into his co-star Aidy Bryant and sends several cast members into a laughing fit. We don’t blame them for breaking because it only makes the scene that much funnier. The comic rolls with the punches and delivers an underrated performance.

“Mr. Robinson’s Neighborhood 2019”
When Eddie Murphy came back to host “SNL,” he showed that he hadn’t lost any of his comedic edge. He brought back characters like Mr. Robinson and Gumby, showing that they still work in the modern day. This fun trip down memory lane focuses on the many changes that have taken place since the last sketch. Murphy playfully switches between a kind teacher and an angry man, tackling important subjects like gentrification. It’s amazing that this premise still works and continues to set up funny interactions between neighbors. The comedian doesn’t even need co-stars to get laughs, with his own dynamic performance carrying this sketch to its enjoyable conclusion.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Kate McKinnon, Maya Rudolph, & Kristen Wiig, “ABBA Christmas”
Return to Deliver a Chaotic Performance as the Swedish Quartet

Pete Davidson, “I’m Just Pete”
Turning His Personal Struggles into a “Barbie” Parody

Jimmy Fallon, “Michael Bublé Christmas Duets”
Unleashes Some Lovable & Goofy Impressions for a Music Compilation

Chris Farley, “Matt Foley at the Gym”
Makes Cast Members Laugh & Dumps a Pot of Coffee in This Funny Scene

Fred Armisen & Jason Sudeikis, “New Girlfriend”
Crazy Couple Ruin a Party by Pushing Boundaries

“Sarah Palin and Hillary Address the Nation”
In one of the best casting decisions in “SNL” history, Tina Fey played the former governor of Alaska. Her ability to both look and sound like Sarah Palin made the 2008 election much more entertaining. With this hilarious sketch, Fey joins Amy Poehler’s Hillary Clinton to talk about all kinds of political issues. Palin’s take on foreign policy includes one of the best quotes from the sketch, with the politician talking about her strategy. The comedian’s uncanny performance manages to be both realistic and funny in surprising ways. Playing beautifully off of her co-star, the “30 Rock” performer nails every mannerism of her target. Her triumphant return to the “Saturday Night Live” stage gave the show one of its finest political impressions.

Did we forget another memorable appearance from “SNL” alumni? Let us know in the comments below.