TOM HANKS
While the title “America’s Sweetheart” is usually reserved for women, Hanks fits the bill to a tee. His willingness to mock his own film work went a long way in introducing us to this actor’s actor.
DREW BARRYMORE
Her effervescence, commitment and life before the camera made her so game for whatever “SNL” threw her way.
JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE
JT isn’t only the rare host/musical guest combo, he’s also in the Five Timers club. Timberlake can also be credited with the SNL digital revolution, starring in beloved viral clips like “D*ck in a Box” with Andy Samberg.
JON HAMM
Despite his movie star looks, Hamm is as big a comedy nerd as natives like Tina Fey and Fred Armisen. His 30 Rockefeller Plaza legacy earns him a spot here.
TINA FEY
Head writer, “Weekend Update” anchor and game-changing Sarah Palin impersonator Fey is arguably “SNL’s” finest ambassador and a killer host to boot.
JOHN GOODMAN
He has consistently delighted with his ability to play larger-than-life comedy alongside his archetype of blue collar straight man. His Linda Tripp impersonation is one for the record books.
RICHARD PRYOR
He isn’t just a stand-up legend, he was a boundary-distending host with sketches like “Word Association.”
BEHIND THE MUSIC
“More cow bell.” No further explanation required.
KERRY WASHINGTON
K-Dub is an actor’s actor, a primetime darling and a general class act. But her recent turn as host showed us her playful, topical side with sketches like, “What Does My Girl Say?”
ANNA KENDRICK
Kendrick is a triple-threat charmer whose “SNL” gig further propelled her into our hearts.
ANDREW GARFIELD
Previously, he seemed to have two speeds: indie brooding and Peter Parker. His turn as host showed a sense of awareness, a bit of cynicism and brought us the Beyonce gem, “The Beygency.”
ALEC BALDWIN
His damped-down anger, Broadway showmanship and movie star silliness make Baldwin a pillar of the show. “Schweddy Balls” and “Canteen Boy” are easy milestones.
STEVE MARTIN
You don’t host “SNL” 15 times without good reason. Martin is an American treasure, largely for the memorable characters he forged at 30 Rock.
JERRY SEINFELD
Despite his eponymous TV show, Seinfeld diversified plenty — to much satisfaction — under the gaze of Lorne Michaels.
CANDICE BERGEN
A five-timer and a glass ceiling buster, her mix of edge and high-brow mannerisms made Bergen unforgettable in sketches like “Toonces The Driving Cat.”
JIM CARREY
While he forged his career on a different sketch show, Carey’s rubber face and likability couldn’t be contained. Especially when spoofing Matthew McConaughey’s Lincoln commercials.
BETTY WHITE
She can do no wrong. You think we’d leave her on the cutting room floor?
CHEVY CHASE
He’s as much a part of the DNA of “Saturday Night Live” as cue cards, audience plants and the very building it broadcasts from.
EMMA STONE
She can play goofy, sexy and downright weird. Check out “Bridal Shower” for her underrated, amazing sketch as a strange woman who brings her coworker some inappropriate gifts on the eve of her wedding.
SHIA LABEOUF
He might not get a break in the press, but Shia’s been an exemplary host with the help of scene partners like Maya Rudolph.
BRUNO MARS
Mars proved himself more than a crooner with acting chops and charm outside the arena of the music video.
BEN AFFLECK
He went through hell — and “Gigli” — to cement his status as Great American Movie Star. His “SNL” gigs have delivered and contributed to his triumphant return to the A-list.
