The Best Saturday Night Live Cast: A Comparative Analysis

Saturday Night Live (SNL) is a show that has captivated audiences for decades, with each cast bringing its unique flavor to the mix. Determining which cast is the best is often subjective and can depend on the viewer's introduction to the show and personal taste. This article explores the merits of each cast, considering factors such as innovative humor, memorable characters, and lasting legacy.

The Original Cast (1975-1980)

The Original Cast sets the foundation for SNL, with iconic figures like Chevy Chase, Gilda Radner, John Belushi, and Dan Aykroyd leading the way. This era is celebrated for its groundbreaking work, introducing memorable characters and sketches that have influenced comedy ever since. These actors innovated creative absurdity and laid the groundwork for subsequent casts to follow.

The Early 1980s Cast (1980-1984)

Following the original cast, the Early 1980s Cast, featuring Eddie Murphy, Joe Piscopo, and Al Franken, revitalized the show. Known for their sharp humor and memorable sketches, this era’s comedic style redefined what SNL could be. Eddie Murphy's performance, particularly in the 1980-1984 run, is a highlight of the era, allowing him to shine in a way that had not been seen before.

The 1990s Cast (1990-1995)

The 1990s Cast includes Mike Myers, Dana Carvey, Chris Farley, and Adam Sandler. This group brought a mix of absurdity and character-driven humor, with a blend of comedias that remain beloved. Their contributions to the show's legacy are significant, with memorable characters and sketches that continue to be celebrated.

The 2000s Cast (2001-2006)

The 2000s Cast, with stars like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Will Ferrell, is notable for its strong writing and memorable political satire, particularly during the 2008 election. This era’s writing and performances offered a sophisticated take on current events, making it a critical period in the show's history.

The Current Cast (2016-present)

More recently, the Current Cast, featuring Aidy Bryant, Kate McKinnon, and Pete Davidson, has continued the tradition of sharp political commentary and diverse comedic styles. This newer era adds a fresh perspective to the show, bringing new energy and commentary on contemporary issues.

Ultimately, the best cast is a matter of personal taste. Each era contributes uniquely to the show's legacy, offering different comedic styles and memorable characters. Some viewers, like me, grew up with the original cast and still love most of their work. Others might point to the early 80s or the 2000s for its superior performances and writing.

The 1986-1989 Cast is often celebrated for reviving the show with innovative content. This era featured a compact and well-rounded cast, with actors like bDennis Miller, Dana Carvey, Phil Hartman, Jan Hooks, Kevin Nealon, Nora Dunn, Jon Lovitz, and Victoria Jackson displaying perfect performances. The show felt like an 'adult' show with sophisticated humor and worthwhile recurring characters. In contrast, modern SNL struggles with a larger number of cast members and frequent guest stars, making it difficult to follow along.

When comparing the performances, the 1990s and the late 1980s casts are often considered on par. However, the writing in the late 80s era was funnier, and the guest star hosts were generally of higher quality. The cast's ability to gel together is a testament to their success in the late 80s.

In conclusion, while different eras of SNL have their unique strengths, the 1986-1989 cast stands out for its innovative content, strong character-driven humor, and the ability to captivate audiences. For those who appreciate a sophisticated, well-rounded show filled with memorable performances and characters, this era holds a special place in the history of SNL.