One of the longest-running network TV shows ever, Saturday Night Live has had an undeniable impact on pop culture over the past (nearly) five decades. Its wide-ranging characters and sketches — “More cowbell,” anyone? — have cemented themselves into our everyday lexicon, inspiring countless memes, catchphrases, and movies (Wayne’s World and A Night at the Roxbury both originated with SNL sketches).
The sketch comedy show has also served as the launching pad for generations of comedy superstars — everyone from John Belushi and Gilda Radner to Bill Murray and Eddie Murphy; Mike Myers and Adam Sandler to Tracy Morgan, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler. The golden eras of comedy greats such as Will Ferrell, Kristen Wiig, Andy Samberg, and Chris Rock each defined a different chapter of the show’s long legacy, While today’s cast includes some of the funniest comedians on the rise, from Bowen Yang to Adie Bryant, and Kate McKinnon, among others.
On top of great catchphrases, Saturday Night Live has also been the breeding ground for some incredibly memorable characters, including Al Franken’s Stuart Smalley and his daily affirmations; Molly Shannon’s awkward teen cheerleader Mary Katherine Gallagher; and Dana Carvey’s saucy Church Lady, to name just a few. Here, we’ve collected 14 of the most memorable quotes from SNL greats from over the years, to bring some small joy and nostalgia to your day.
Well, isn’t that special?Dana Carvey as Church Lady
I’m Chevy Chase — and you’re not.Chevy Chase as himself for Weekend Update
Sometimes, when I get nervous, I put my fingers under my arms, and then smell them like this….Molly Shannon as awkward cheerleader Mary Katherine Gallagher
Schwing!” and “We’re not worthy!Mike Myers and Dana Carvey as Wayne and Garth
I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me.Al Franken as self-help expert Stuart Smalley
I can see Russia from my house.Tina Fey as vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin
Ve just vant to pump [clap] — you up!Dana Carvey and Kevin Nealon as Hans & Franz
I got a fever, and the only prescription is more cowbell!Christopher Walken spoofing VH1’s Behind the Music
I’m getting a little verklempt. Talk amongst yourselves!Mike Myers as talk show host Linda Richmond
New York’s hottest club is…Bill Hader as beloved NYC nightlife inside Stefon
What's your favorite planet? Mine's the sun. Always has been. I like it 'cause it's like the king of the planets.Will Ferrell as Harry Caray
I’m just so freakin’ excited!Kristen Wiig as rainbow sweater-wearing Aunt Sue
Hey, what’s happening, and welcome to ‘The Ladies Man.’ The love line with all the right responses to your romantic queries. I’m Leon Phelps, and how y’all doin’ tonight?Tim Meadows as Leon Phelps aka The Ladies Man
I live in a van, down by the river!Chris Farley as motivational speaker Matt Foley
Photo credit: Amy Sussman/ Staff/ via Getty Images
