Top 10 SNL Hosts Who Made the Five-Timers Club

In the 2000s, Justin Timberlake hosted “SNL” as a pop artist. People might not have expected a singer to be this funny. He then spent the next decade showing off his natural comedy instincts. In the “Barry Gibb Talk Show” sketches, he’s the hilarious sidekick that breaks. There’s also his history with the Digital Shorts. Along with Andy Samberg, Timberlake played an R&B performer that tackled taboo subjects. This doesn’t even count all of his great character work. As a host and musical guest, this vocalist proved that a pop star can excel as a sketch player.

As a memorable host from the 1970s and beyond, Candice Bergen shined in the initial years of the show. She might be best remembered for a fun moment opposite Gilda Radner. In the “Extremely Stupid” sketch, Bergen shows that she can roll with the punches and laugh at herself. The dramatic actress also played well with cast members like John Belushi. For period pieces and absurd ideas, the performer knows how to serve the scene. She returned multiple times and became the first woman to join the five-timers club. No matter what, the host brought a dedicated performance that made everybody look good.

As a former writer and performer on “SNL,” Tina Fey made a name for herself as a comedic mastermind. She’s since returned as a guest actor and host many times. With her Sarah Palin impression, Fey reminded everyone that she could control the entire scene. She always has a natural delivery that works for any kind of comic concept. Fey also co-hosted with Amy Poehler in another fantastic episode, revealing her chemistry with other “Saturday Night Live” staples. Her days as a “Weekend Update” anchor and “30 Rock” star only made her more qualified to rejoin the show. She’s continuously proved herself with a mix of characters and dry comedy.

Producing decades of exceptional comedy, Martin Short makes any appearance worthwhile. He’s a comedic machine that makes every hosting gig special. Partnering with Steve Martin, the comedian helps to create an awesome comedic pair. Short also has the distinction of being a former cast member of “SNL.” He has a talent for great voices and accents, turning each scene into a masterclass. The performer even shines in funny moments with Paul McCartney. He’s not just one of the “Three Amigos,” showing off his diverse abilities every time he shows up. The actor’s recent induction into the Five-Timers Club certifies his legendary status.

This performer’s offbeat delivery makes him a secret weapon on “Saturday Night Live.” The dramatic actor won an Oscar in his earlier career, but he later found a comedic edge on this show. His sketches like “The Continental” let him be as silly as he wants to be. He developed something of a new persona thanks to opportunities from “SNL.” In the “More Cowbell” skit, Walken lays down one of the finer guest performances in the program’s history. His unique cadence can’t be understated, helping to sell scripts like the infamous “Colonel Angus.” He even finds a way to play opposite impressions of himself.

On both TV and film, Melissa McCarthy established herself as a physical comedian. She then lent these talents to many “SNL” ventures. As a host, she feels like the missing link that enhances every skit. McCarthy easily slips into the zaniest characters with ease. She doesn’t care about putting her body on the line for a joke. Willing to fall down stairs, the performer is fearless in roles such as Lulu Diamonds. You could easily imagine her as a cast member in another life. No matter what absurd person she’s playing, she gives 110% to every single episode.

Few could argue against him being one of the most iconic cast members from “Saturday Night Live.” Will Ferrell’s post-show career is full of classic material, prompting his return for many successful hosting sessions. He also brought back famous roles like Alex Trebek for “Celebrity Jeopardy!” With many original characters, the comedian could steal a scene next to any talented performer. Ferrell is the rare person who can make anyone look good and get guaranteed laughs. As one of the most energetic personalities in “SNL” history, this actor shows that he’s never lost his step. Whether he’s breaking or keeping a straight face, he never fails to entertain.

Over a dozen times, John Goodman was invited to host “SNL.” He showed each time that he’s a superior character actor, blending into any sketch idea. This includes his ability to do celebrity impressions. He appeared as various celebrities over the years, including a hilarious impersonation of Robert De Niro. Goodman could hold his own alongside amazing performers like Phil Hartman or Amy Poehler. He’s often the life of the party, turning his episodes into wall-to-wall fun. The “Big Lebowski” star can do jokes, act, and even dance when he wants. You couldn’t ask for a host that’s more game to throw himself into anything.

Since the 1980s, Tom Hanks has been one of the show’s most reliable hosts. He’s also the first one to formally enter the Five-Timers Club. During a 1990 episode, the actor entered the proverbial society for elite presenters. He brings his lovable personality and wit to all kinds of sketches. He can be silly or the straight man, showing that he’s just there to have fun no matter what. Hanks even turns guest appearances into scene-stealing roles. From “Jeopardy!” parodies to Digital Shorts, this performer reminds us why he’s one of the most beloved artists of his generation.


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

The Comedian Started as a Writer on the Show & Later Returned as a Charismatic Host

This Actor Has Hosted So Many Times You Could Call Him an Honorary Cast Member

The Dramatic Actress & “Black Widow” Performer Frequently Shows Her Knack for Comedy

An Oscar Winner That Can Play Both Silly & Dramatic Characters like a Charm

This Former Cast Member Brings Her Quirky & Wild Characters to Every Appearance

When people think about classic “SNL” hosts, they likely consider this man. Steve Martin was reaching the peak of his stand-up career during the early seasons. Naturally, he fit right in with his wacky performances. His stage persona translated perfectly to all kinds of iconic moments. As King Tut, the comedian showed off his musical side. This doesn’t even count his other characters like one-half of the “Wild and Crazy Guys.” He has many memorable roles, making him something of an honorary cast member. His episode with Martin Short brought out his chemistry with other comic legends. For five decades, he’s continued to prove himself throughout his many hosting jobs.

Did we forget another awesome five-timer host? Let us know in the comments below.