Top 10 Hilarious SNL Sketches That Didn't Make the Cut

Sometimes the title says it all. With this simple premise, “SNL” has fun at the expense of a sci-fi classic. Host Charlie Sheen joins in on the fun as Death Star employees dress casually. There are plenty of references for fans of the series, while the cast members bring out their best take on “Star Wars” extras. You also get to see the evil villains in some goofy outfits. With appearances from Darth Vader, this sketch shows you a side of the Empire you never see. Princess Leia’s reactions to the Sith Lord’s attire make this scene even funnier.

Somewhat underrated for his time at “SNL,” Kyle Mooney made more than a few memorable sketches. This one follows him as he becomes new cast member Adam Zekeman. Mooney’s character doesn’t have any easy go of it, struggling to find himself in a sea of talent. The heartfelt sketch mixes humor with what seems like personal material for the performer. Zekeman has some funny interactions with his co-stars, with some cringe scenes leading up to his big break. His “Weekend Update” role comes with a triumphant moment and a surprise turn. With a major twist, the ending features some unexpected laughs from this tragic tale.

Michael Keaton’s hosting gigs at “SNL” churn out some hilarious sketches. While this one didn’t make it to air, it still featured all the things you love about the actor’s comedic style. He plays an eccentric TV host who talks to his furniture. Things take a turn when the whole concept comes crashing down, forcing the character to confront his weaknesses. Funny reactions from the other cast members come after shocking revelations for Keaton’s role. The comedian really indulges in the darker humor of this scene. By the end, you might even find yourself wondering about a sequel.

If you ever questioned the chemistry between Bill Hader and Fred Armisen, you should watch this sketch. The lovable train wreck starts promising as the two unleash their accents. Before too long, they try to talk about Christmas and crack up instead. We don’t blame them either considering their absurd voices. At a certain point, it almost seems like the pair are trying to make each other laugh. Even Jamie Foxx has to hold back a smile at one point. With one last appearance from Tim Robinson, this bizarre and funny misfire comes to a hilarious close.

With the ability to light up any sketch, Chris Farley gave his all to any comedic idea. This “Weekend Update” character finds him as a guy named Jerry Sozio. The role is a perfect example of someone who can’t tell a story, constantly laughing and stumbling over details. Farley gives it all the energy you expect to see from him. The cigarette and the gestures only emphasize the comedy, giving the performer some extra help to sell the part. You feel like this legend could’ve done this bit for an hour with equal success. In another standout moment, the comedian certainly stands as another great piece of “SNL” history.

This sitcom parody has everything you could want from the genre. From the dated clothes to the laugh track, this sketch feels like an authentic look at 1980s TV. It also features a funny story about Kyle Mooney’s Dougie trying to be different. The over-the-top acting only enhances each moment, with host Ryan Gosling going all out for ridiculous jokes. There’s even a party scene where everyone gets to dance. Full of crazy transitions and surprises, there are plenty of great details you might miss the first time. The abrupt ending ultimately shows how wild this ride really is.

The holidays aren’t always the easiest to get through. Turning this conflict into humor, the sketch nails that feeling with pinpoint accuracy. Taking that idea to the next level, “SNL” devotes an award ceremony to the way family members act at Thanksgiving. This includes unruly parents, politically incorrect guests, and more. Each performer breathes reality into a sketch that’s built on relatable moments. Anne Hathaway and Bobby Moynihan are two standouts here, playing the relatives that we sometimes have trouble loving. It’s a funny way of tackling the misery, comedy, and cringe of some family get-togethers.

If you’re a former theater kid, you might find something to relate to here. Will Ferrell plays an overbearing director casting his latest show. The ensemble awaits the announcement with a blend of awkwardness, comedy, and excitement. Ferrell’s character torments the teenagers, making them all wonder about the results. The comedian’s co-stars play convincing students with believable personalities. Hitting close to home for some, this scene might be both funny and heartbreaking to watch. The sketch comes together with big performances from talented performers. By the end, you might wonder how this winner failed to make the show.

This sketch is yet another excuse to witness the genius of Bill Hader. As a mysterious gift, his character Alan provides entertainment for a couple’s living room. This includes some dancing that you’ll probably want to replicate yourself. Hader eases into the role with an effortless energy, never letting on that there’s much more to come. You might be confused and laughing as this scene keeps trudging along. With a climactic ending, the former cast member lets out his best screech. It’s one of many silly premises that got a chance to shine after being released online.

This sketch takes hold of us from the second we see Will Ferrell. We have questions about a prospector joining the military, but the mystery makes it funnier. Ferrell digs into his crazed role with reckless abandon. Unsurprisingly, many of the cast members break as the lead flies off the handle. The mix of the performer’s voice and the script makes this a sketch that deserves more attention. The scene then goes one step further, letting us know why Chiggins is hanging around. With a hilarious performance and some convincing chipmunk sounds, the icon creates some fantastic work.


Did we forget another hilarious “SNL” sketch that didn’t hit the airwaves?