1. Cheeburger, Cheeburger
John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd’s unforgettable “Cheeburger, Cheeburger” sketch brought the Greek diner experience to life, complete with limited menu choices and an unshakeable attitude. It’s a skit that showcased Belushi’s unmatched energy and physical comedy skills.
There’s something magical about classic Saturday Night Live skits—those unforgettable performances that left audiences laughing until they cried. These sketches had humor that’s still unmatched, born from the originality of the show’s early years and the unique comedic timing of its legendary cast members. Here are 12 classic SNL skits that are way funnier than anything you’ll see today.
2. More Cowbell
A truly iconic skit with Christopher Walken and Will Ferrell, “More Cowbell” has become shorthand for anything hilariously over-the-top. With the absurdity of Ferrell’s intense dedication to his instrument, it’s a perfect reminder of SNL‘s knack for memorable catchphrases and unforgettable moments.
3. Wayne’s World
Before it became a movie, “Wayne’s World” started as a sketch that captured basement-level humor at its finest, with Mike Myers and Dana Carvey as the ultimate rock-loving duo. Their catchphrases, awkward guests, and playful charm made Wayne and Garth staples of ‘90s pop culture.
4. The Blues Brothers
What began as a sketch quickly became a phenomenon, with John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd embodying the cool, music-loving Blues Brothers. Their comedic dynamic, set to a soundtrack of blues hits, made this one of SNL’s most beloved sketches and a cultural mainstay.
5. The Samurai
Belushi’s “Samurai” character was one of those roles that only he could have pulled off, bringing a mix of absurdity and commitment to every scene. His larger-than-life performance as a samurai wielding a katana in the most unlikely scenarios captured SNL’s daring humor.
6. Celebrity Jeopardy!
Will Ferrell’s recurring role as an exasperated Alex Trebek was a brilliant setup for a parade of hilariously terrible celebrity impressions. Between Sean Connery’s insults and clueless contestants, it’s a masterclass in how to nail ridiculous, endearing parody.
7. Land Shark
A simple concept taken to absurd lengths, the “Land Shark” skit took the ‘70s shark-attack craze and turned it into a hilarious, unexpected twist. With doors opening to a supposed “land shark,” it became one of the show’s first great absurdist hits.
8. Matt Foley: Motivational Speaker
Chris Farley’s “motivational speaker” who “lives in a van down by the river” is comedy gold, combining physical humor and Farley’s explosive energy. His ridiculous advice and over-the-top delivery are unforgettable and endlessly quoted.
9. The Coneheads
This extraterrestrial family from France, featuring Dan Aykroyd and Jane Curtin, was oddly relatable in its fish-out-of-water humor. The Coneheads’ unusual habits and customs made them a beloved staple of the show’s early days.
10. Church Lady
Dana Carvey’s “Church Lady” was a perfect mix of judgmental humor and sharp satire, poking fun at moral hypocrisy with catchphrases like, “Well, isn’t that special?” The character’s deadpan delivery and righteous attitude became a defining moment of SNL’s late ‘80s era.
11. Mr. Robinson’s Neighborhood
Eddie Murphy’s hilarious take on Mr. Rogers was a brilliant satire, turning the classic children’s show on its head. The sketch delivered clever social commentary mixed with Murphy’s spot-on comedic timing, creating a memorable and beloved character.
12. Weekend Update with Jane Curtin and Dan Aykroyd
As one of SNL’s earliest “Weekend Update” duos, Curtin and Aykroyd’s dry delivery and sharp exchanges were comedy at its finest. Their chemistry, punctuated by iconic lines like Aykroyd’s “Jane, you ignorant…” (well, you know the rest), solidified the segment as a classic.
The golden years of SNL gifted us with some of the most iconic sketches in comedy history, showcasing the brilliance of comedians who pushed boundaries and redefined humor. These unforgettable skits stand the test of time, reminding us of the days when SNL truly was at the top of its game, with comedy that’s still worth rewatching (and quoting) today.
