No network television show has impacted society, politics, and culture more than Saturday Night Live. First premiering in 1975, the iconic program will celebrate 50 years in January with an iconic celebration and a reunion of some of the most memorable cast members. Whether it be launching the careers of history’s most prominent comedians, influencing American politics through sketches, or providing levity during some of the country’s darkest days, SNL has left an enduring legacy.
Regarding financial success, SNL has helped launch the careers of some of Hollywood’s biggest names. With an estimated net worth of nearly $420 million, Adam Sandler is by far the wealthiest alumni of the program. Sandler debuted on the show on December 8, 1990, in the “Sabra Network Sketch.” He became an official featured player just a few months later, in February 1991. Sandler is followed closely by Robert Downey Jr., who only performed as an SNL cast member for one season.
Recently, Colin Jost and Micheal Che became the longest-serving Weekend Update hosts in the program’s history. Taking the helm of the fake news desk, the two have been cracking each other up for nearly a decade. The segment’s original anchor was Chevy Chase, who started Weekend Update in the first SNL broadcast. Chase would end the segment with his signature closing remark, “That’s the news… good night, and have a pleasant tomorrow.”
While Jost and Che may be the longest-running update hosts, their tenure on SNL is nothing compared to Kenan Thompson, the longest-running cast member. Performing on the program for 21 years, Thompson has popularized several hit sketches, including “What’s Up With That?,” “Black Jeopardy,” and Micheal Che’s always upbeat neighbor Willie.
Becoming a cast member in 2000, Tina Fey has cemented herself as the most successful female comedian on the show. Working as a writer, cast member, and later the first female host of Weekend Update, Fey was responsible for hit sketches including “Woomba,” “Mom Jeans,” and “Annule” – a pill that allows women to have their period just once a year. Bringing her unique feminist perspective to the show, Fey opened doors for more funny women, including Kate Mckinnon, Aidy Bryant, and Kristin Wiig, to take their place on the Studio 8H stage.
With a rich and storied history, SNL has kept Americans laughing for five decades. Responsible for the careers of Hollywood’s finest, from Adam Sandler to Robert Downey Jr. to Tina Fey, Saturday Night Live has made history as one of the most significant and longest-running television programs.
